Lind, Ritzville School Board members approve funding for student trip

Five Lind-Ritzville High School students will be traveling to Washington, D.C., in March thanks to the help of support money from student organizations and the Lind and Ritzville School Boards.

Current World Problems Teacher Angalina Vallone addressed the two school boards during their meeting on Dec. 19 in Ritzville.

She announced the students have a unique opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., and see the capitol from an exclusive perspective with the help of local farmer and U.S. Wheat Associates representative Mike Miller.

Vallone explained with Miller’s security clearance level, he has offered to take a group of students “behind the scenes” at locations such as the Supreme Court chambers, FBI meeting headquarters, Pentagon and the White House.

The discussion regarding the potential for a trip like this began in the fall, Vallone explained, when Miller approached her about the opportunity for students in her CWP class.

After Miller presented to the class a few weeks ago, Vallone said it became evident the students were excited about the possibility of the trip and the experience it would provide.

The purpose of the trip is to educate the students about international trade, as well as show the students the wide array of opportunities available to them.

Vallone said she is researching tours and options for activities that the students could participate in during the trip.

While their purpose is to coordinate around Miller’s availability while in Washington, D.C., Vallone explained the students would also be visiting local monument and museums to learn about the history of the country.

The estimated cost for the five-day trip for five students and two adults is $10,000, Vallone explained.

The trip has already been partially funded by the student store’s enrichment fund proceeds and a contribution from the Associated Student Body.

Vallone explained the five students have not been selected yet, and in order to be chosen for the trip, they must complete a college level scholarship application, and an essay or video presentation on two topics.

The applicants must all be upperclassmen at Lind-Ritzville High School.

The committee for selection of the students will be comprised of members from outside of the local community in order to ensure there is not any bias towards students, Vallone explained.

The application process is not solely based on grade point average, she explained, but all students must be eligible.

Along with the application process, Vallone said each student must also commit to participating in two or three fundraising activities.

They must also agree to present to students and local organizations upon returning from the trip.

The Lind and Ritzville School Boards each individually approved to monetarily support the trip by contributing $250 per attendee from each school district.