Government Class Inspired by Capitol Hill Field Trip

Story by Donald Short, Principal

Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) students live, work and play in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley that they often sing about as “God’s works in nature multiplied.” SVA is also near many historical sites, as well as cultural sights and the halls of government in Washington, D.C.

Led by teacher Samuel Mora, the senior government class recently took a field trip to Capitol Hill to tour the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress, a long-standing SVA academic tradition. The students were warmly welcomed to the House of Representatives side of the Capitol by Ben Cline, U.S. representative for Virginia’s 6th Congressional District.

Barry Black, the chaplain of the U.S. senate and who is a Seventh-day Adventist, offered inspiring advice and answered questions posed by the seniors—all wearing bow ties in his honor. Black shared wise counsel with the students, based on Luke 2:52: “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (NIV). He discussed topics ranging from the importance of Adventist education in his life to college study skills, dating and the power of prayer.

After lunch, in addition to exploring the educational and interactive visitor center, seniors took a guided tour of the Capitol. Afterward, they had the opportunity to visit the Library of Congress. Three members of the group returned with new library cards.

The seniors echo this sentiment: “Thank you, Mr. Mora, Mr. Gordon Miller, Mr. Todd Hunt and Mrs. Carrie Heilman, for planning, driving and chaperoning the inspiring trip.”

When it comes to the Class of 2025, who will stand for what is right in the halls of power? Who will carry responsibilities in nonprofit ministries or bring principled leadership to the corporate boardrooms of America? This senior class has the potential to live up to the people Solomon refers to in Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men” (NKJV).