Press release:

Global Connections High School Wind and Jazz Ensembles received the highest possible rating, Superior with Distinction, for their performances at the Presidential Inauguration Music Festival.

During their trip, January 18 – 21, the students also witnessed the Oath of Office and the Presidential Address, toured famous monuments, visited Smithsonian museums, and had the chance to interact with music groups from across the country. A special highlight was the tour of the U.S. capitol, arranged by US Congressman Adam Smith.

“The trip to Washington, D.C., was an amazing and inspirational experience for our students,” said Rick Harwood, Principal, Global Connections High School. “Our students were fully engaged in every aspect of the trip, as they experienced one exciting event after another.

“The chance to be part of one of the most important events in the world made a lasting impression on our students and expanded the possibilities they see for themselves as contributing members of their communities, local and global.”

The trip to perform in the music festival was made possible by the very generous Highline community. Many individuals and organizations pitched in to raise the $60,000 needed to pay for trip expenses for the students.

Nearly 80 percent of students at Global Connections High School qualify for free- or reduced-price lunch, so community support was essential.