By: Summer Bixler and Claire Cutting

For only the second time in U.S. history, a presidential inauguration was held indoors. This historic moment marked the swearing-in of the nation’s 47th president, Donald J. Trump, and drew attention to its break from tradition. This decision to move the event was due to the frigid temperatures in Washington, D.C., on January 20. 

Bellbrook High School students and staff weighed in on the event’s significance and how it relates to their curriculum. Perry Caldwell, a Government and Global Issues teacher, shared the importance of the inauguration as a learning opportunity.

“I teach Government, and the inauguration is a part of our curriculum,” Caldwell said. “I watched with my three youngest children to foster an interest in the political process.” For Caldwell, the event is more than a ceremony: it’s a moment to educate and inspire his students, too.

Senior Mia Nazarenus did not watch the inauguration but mentioned that she knew about it going on. Students like Nazarenus are the reason Caldwell emphasizes using it as a learning tool. He educates students who may not have watched the event and uses clips from the inauguration to spark interest and discussion among his students.

“Most of my students are trying to sort through things to gain understanding as they draw closer to adulthood,” Caldwell said. He encouraged students to watch the inauguration to see and understand the traditions within the political process.

AP U.S. History and World Studies teacher Bob Parks offered a different perspective. While he did not watch the event live, he discussed the importance of staying informed. “Sometimes I watch, but usually I can see clips or read about it later,” Parks said. He added the ceremony is more symbolic than educational, therefore he doesn’t usually incorporate it into his lessons.

Parks remarked on the historical significance of moving the event indoors. “This was the first time that has happened since 1985,” Parks said.

Though there are differing opinions on the necessity of watching the inauguration or studying it in class, both teachers agreed it provides a memorable opportunity to reflect on the traditions of a democracy and the peaceful transfer of power.