Published: October 20, 2008 12:17 am      

Phoenix students to attend presidential inauguration

GREENVILLE — Three Phoenix Charter School students will attend the inauguration of the next president of the United States in January.

Ashley Burkett, Cherokee Washington, and Deshondra Brown will attend the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20, 2009.

According to social studies instructor Darrin Garner, Washington and Brown will attend the inauguration as part of a government project. Both have paid for the trip out of their own pockets.

Burkett will attend the Presidential Youth Inaugural Conference in honor of her academic achievement and leadership as part of the Congressional Youth Leadership Council.

“They teach you communication skills and conflict resolution skills,” said Burkett, referencing her experience with the Congressional Youth leadership council.

According to Student Activities Coordinator Atlin Otis, Burkett will have the unique opportunity to witness history in the making. As an Inaugural Scholar, she will witness and gain a deeper understanding of the history behind the electoral process and be inspired by the richness of the tradition surrounding the Inauguration.

“Ashley has been a dedicated and inspiring member of the Phoenix Dream Team for the past five years. Her consistent academic achievement speaks for itself,” said Otis.