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WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) personally led two U.S. Capitol tours for students for Fort Recovery Middle School in Mercer County and Antwerp Middle School in Paulding County.
During the ongoing government shutdown, many federal operations, including public Capitol tours, are suspended until the government reopens. However, Members of Congress are still permitted to lead tours themselves, allowing students and visitors to continue experiencing the U.S. Capitol. Last week, Congressman Latta led two Capitol tours for Marion Local Schools and Coldwater Middle School in Mercer County.
Both Fort Recovery and Antwerp Middle Schools traveled to Washington, DC for their eighth-grade field trips, though many of their planned activities were cancelled due to the ongoing government shutdown. The Fort Recovery students spent over a year preparing for the trip, raising funds through a laundry soap fundraiser. Likewise, Antwerp Middle School students sold cookie dough, poinsettias, beef jerky, Little Caesars pizza, and baked goods, hosted raffles, and volunteered at local events to make their trip possible. Congressman Latta was glad to welcome both groups to the Capitol and ensure they could still experience one of the highlights of their visit.
“It’s important for students to learn about American history and civics, and there’s no better way than by visiting the place where it all happens. I was glad to welcome Fort Recovery and Antwerp Middle School to the U.S. Capitol today, answer their questions, and show them the people’s House. I hope their visit inspires them to stay engaged and continue learning about their government,” Latta said.
"When I initially heard of the government shutdown, I along with the students and parents was definitely anxious and nervous on how that would play out for us on our Washington, DC trip. This trip is an experience that students look forward to each year and has been ongoing in our district and many other Mercer County school districts for many years. So it's a big deal. One consequence of the shutdown was we wouldn't get to publicly tour the Capitol. Fortunately for us, K&K reached out to Congressman Latta and was able to secure this private tour. This was an amazing opportunity for our students, and we are greatly appreciative of his time and willingness to step up. One remarkable thing about living in a small town is that the networking is there and many other community members voiced concerns and advocated for us in finding a way into the Capitol to reprieve some of the disappointment of missing out on some other stops in the trip. This tour definitely will be something the students remember for years to come as a unique and memorable experience. We can't thank Congressman Latta enough,” said Jessica Jutte, 7th Grade Teacher at Fort Recovery Schools.
“The Antwerp Class of 2030 is grateful for the opportunity to still be able to tour the Capitol while on the 8th grade trip to DC this year. We thank Congressman Latta for taking time out of his busy schedule to make this happen! This is a very important part of the trip as it helps our students understand how our government works and the role Congress plays in its success. This will be a stop that they will never forget,” said Zac Feasby, Antwerp 7th & 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher.
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