On Oct. 1, the U.S. government was shut down due to Congress being unable to pass appropriation bills that fund federal agencies and programs. This had many consequences, including federal workers being temporarily out of work, disruption of non-essential services, and economic slowdown.
The shutdown also affected seniors in government classes who were planning on attending a field trip to Washington D.C. originally scheduled for Nov. 14. The plan was for students to visit the National Mall and then spend time at various museums, which was not possible during the shutdown.
AP Government teacher Chris Gallagher helped plan the trip, and contributed to the decision to postpone. Gallagher explains why the trip could not happen.
“Government shutdowns affect the group of museums known collectively as the Smithsonian. Students are permitted to visit these museums, which include locations such as the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum, in the afternoon hours,” Gallagher said.
Since these museums were not open to the public on Nov. 14, the trip was postponed to Dec. 15. The original plan was to postpone the trip until spring, but considering there is a chance of another government shutdown following the end to the funding bill on Jan. 30, December is the best option.
Gallagher talks about changes with the postponed trip, which could be different due to it being much colder and later in the year.
“The logistics of the trip are remaining the same. There will still be periods of being outside, such as when we tour some of the monuments in the morning. Students will need to pay attention to the weather forecast and dress accordingly,” Gallagher said.
The reschedule also provided problems for students that were originally able to go but are now unable to due to scheduling conflicts.
One example of this is senior Libby Pearson, who now cannot attend the trip due to a dance performance.
“I was really excited to hang out with friends and explore the museums and cool architecture. RIP to that trip,” Pearson said.
Other students, including senior Noah Alexander that are able to attend are looking forward to the trip, particularly the visit to Tysons Corner at the end of the day for dinner and shopping.
“I am excited to go to the mall and hang out with friends outside of school,” Alexander said.
As unfortunate as the government shutdown was to many, at least for most Government students there will be a second chance for the D.C. trip.
