News

Focus Students Celebrate Historic Inauguration of President Obama

Posted in News on February 19th, 2009 with Comments Off

All three Focus locations were excited to watch history in the making on January 17, as our first African American President was inaugurated into office. Focus Learning Academy East celebrated by watching the inauguration in the new Multi-Purpose Room. Students were able to watch the historical moment on the big screen and enjoy snacks and drinks, which included cupcakes made by Mrs. Lavelle. Ms. Penn and Mrs. Lavelle even decorated for the event, turning the room into a patriotic red, white and blue viewing area. Focus Southwest students received their lunches early so they could watch the inauguration on television. During the week prior, Mr. Wiseman and Mr. Coffey taught students about the inauguration process.

Two Focus staff members had the chance to experience the inauguration in person. Mr. Holliman, East Director and Mr. Watson, East Director of Student Affairs, witnessed the event, along with millions of others, from the National Mall west of the U.S. Capitol. Mr. Holliman woke up at 4 am to catch the Metro and stood outside for 9 hours in the 30-degree weather! He says, “I was amazed at how everyone was so happy and excited and weren’t complaining at all! It was definitely an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I am so glad to be able to tell my son I witnessed history with my own eyes.” Mr. Watson watched the inauguration sitting on top of a port-a-potty to get a better view! The night before he had the honor of attending the South Carolina State Society’s Inaugural Ball at the Smithsonian Museum. He said, “I was about to leave and come back to Columbus Tuesday morning, but I could not pass up the opportunity to stay and witness history.”