Rene A. Rost Middle School 8th graders in Kaplan are retracing the steps of great explorers and uncovering the roots of American history.

These young boys and girls were given the opportunity to visit Washington , D.C. and New York City during spring Vacation this year. First they flew to visit Washington , D.C. , the world’s most powerful city.

The students participated in a Wreath Laying Ceremony in Arlington National Cemetery at the Tomb of the Unknowns and visited more than 10 Memorial sites, including the Pentagon Memorial from 9/11. The students also visited more than four museums, including the Holocaust museum.   The students also explored many other famous sites including, Capitol Hill, Supreme court, Library of Congress, Smithsonian complex, Old Town Alexandria, Mount Vernon Plantation, and the Kennedy Center.

The group then traveled to New York City, known as the crossroads city of the world for culture and commerce.  While there, they enjoyed walking down Fifth Avenue, through Midtown Manhattan, the Rockefeller Center, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.  The group also took in a Broadway Show.

Before returning home, their New York stop included a visit to the Statue of Liberty, the Empire state building, Ground Zero and the Financial District that included Wall Street and many others. Rene Rost students also had the opportunity to first hand experience Times Square.