From the nation’s founding documents to memorials honoring generations of Americans, Richmond Middle School students recently experienced history beyond the pages of a textbook.

A group of eight students traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of the school’s 37th annual eighth-grade trip. Throughout the four-day experience, students visited museums, memorials and historic landmarks while learning about American history, government and civic responsibility through firsthand experiences.

Teacher Brenda Hamm noted the visit has become a longstanding opportunity for students to explore the nation’s capital while gaining a deeper understanding of the people, events and institutions that have shaped the United States.

“The goal of the annual Washington, D.C. trip is to offer more than a history lesson,” said Hamm. “It provides an opportunity to foster leadership skills and instill a deep sense of civic responsibility in a fun and interactive approach.”

During the first day, students visited the N…