WFHA’s 3rd Grade has a ‘Ball’ Commemorating Inauguration
There were a whopping 10 Inaugural Balls in our nation's capital, but there was only one in Connecticut - at Westchester Fairfield Hebrew Academy.
Dressed in suits, ties, and their prettiest dresses, WFHA's third graders came to school on Inauguration Day, ready not only to witness the swearing in of our 44th president, but to also celebrate with their own Inaugural Ball.
"We watched as all the living past presidents arrived, we sat silently as Obama took the oath of office, and we listened intently to Obama's Inaugural Address," said third grade general studies teacher Hilary Machilis. "On his way to the parade route, Obama made a guest appearance at 270 Lake Avenue, and we seized the opportunity to give him some advice from many famous presidents of the past. Then we celebrated with a beautiful flag cake, learned to tango, and played Presidential Jeopardy."
Once Obama officially became president, each of the third graders pretended to be a representative of a past president and spoke directly to a life-size, and very life-like, cut out of Obama.
They offered some sage advice.
As a representative of Bill Clinton, Jennifer Steinmetz said, "Be nice and honest to your family and your country. He was very embarrassed in front of the American people and he would not want to see any other president be so embarrassed."
Eliana Safer, representing Herbert Hoover warned, "People might blame you for what is happening to the economy now. Herbert Hoover would tell you, in a strong voice, that you should do what you think is right to help the economy, not what other people think."
Inauguration Day was festive throughout WFHA, as the campus proudly displayed its red, white and blue with streamers and flags. Teachers and staff gathered at satellite locations throughout campus to watch the events live and to witness history unfold.