DC a smashing hit!

Sorry no pics right now, since I'm in a hotel without free wireless. I'm going to try and go to a coffeeshop tonight to upload some photos. I scoped it out last night. DC was amazing (as always). The kids had such a great time. They were pretty overwhelmed by everything, and by the breakneck speed we were seeing things. This trip was more of a snapshot (as my co-advisor Lindy would say), they got to see all the major sites, plus a few extras. Now, when they go back, they will have an idea of what they want to see more of, and how much time to devote to each place. Other then some occasional adult ruffled-feathers (tiredness isn't fun), I had a fun time too. Aaron (our tour guide) and Keith (our bus driver) were amazing, and so funny. I think I spent half the trip just laughing up front with them. I will definitely request that dynamic duo the next time I travel to DC, if they are both still doing tours. We could not have had a better team (at least from my standpoint). Aaron is probably the only reason I'm still sane. :) I loved watching the kids take everything in. I think this experience changed their world-view a bit, especially those who don't do any travelling outside of the Northwest. My favorite adventure was a spontaeous one due to a request from one of my students coming back from the zoo: we rode the subway. It was great for them to experience a new way of travelling, and I think they understand why so many people use it now. If they go to a major city or abroad, they will know how the subway system works now, and not be too cautious to try it. If you haven't done it yet, check out our trip site fnshdc.blogspot.org. We posted student reflections and what not at the end of each day.

OK, signing off right now. I am onto my next adventure, dong WASL rangefinding in Iowa City (I got my students checked in and left them with Lindy at security, while I dashed to catch my flight). This is day two. I know it sounds wacko, but I am really excited about this because it's such a great learning opportunity. I'll be able to go back with understanding of not only how they set the scores for the Writing WASL, but also how the score the Persuasive essays, a mystery to most of us, since teachers don't help score that at the HS level. Have a lovely day all!