Founding of a Nation
Members of the Class of 2030 have returned home after a memorable four-day Founding of a Nation (FOAN) trip through Philadelphia, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. This immersive journey brought students face-to-face with the places and moments that shaped the birth of our country. From November 18–21, history came alive as they visited landmarks they typically encounter only in textbooks.
Days 1 & 2: Philadelphia, PA
The trip began with two enriching days in Philadelphia, where the foundations of the nation were laid. Students received an immediate introduction to American history with a guided tour of the USS New Jersey. They then stepped into the era of the American Revolution as they walked through historic streets, visited the iconic Liberty Bell, Congress Hall and toured the National Constitution Center to gain a deeper understanding of how the United States was formed. As a fun tradition, students ran up the famous Rocky Steps and enjoyed authentic Philly Cheesesteaks for a true local experience.
Day 3: Williamsburg and Yorktown, VA
Day three focused on Virginia’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. The morning was spent exploring Colonial Williamsburg, offering students a vivid glimpse into 18th-century life. Highlights included visits to the House of Burgesses, where some of the first significant political debates in colonial America took place. Lunch followed at Shields Tavern, featuring a traditional meal of chicken pot pie.
In the afternoon, the group traveled to Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolution Museum. Standing on Surrender Field where General Cornwallis formally surrendered to General George Washington powerfully reinforced the historical significance of the sites they studied.
Day 4: Washington, D.C.
The trip concluded in the nation’s capital with moments of reflection and reverence. Students began with a stop at the Jefferson Memorial before traveling to Mount Vernon, George Washington's home. Touring the estate and visiting his final resting place offered a personal connection to the life and legacy of the first president.
The journey ended at Arlington National Cemetery, where students witnessed the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This solemn experience served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in service to our country.
Group Workshops
An integral component of the FOAN experience was the daily group workshops. These sessions allowed students to reflect on the day’s visits, review historical content, and deepen their understanding of the significance behind each landmark. This intentional time helped ensure the trip was not only memorable, but more importantly a call to greater civic responsibility.
A Lasting Impact
Overall, the Founding of a Nation trip proved to be far more than a sightseeing tour. It was a transformative experience that strengthened students’ appreciation for American history and reinforced classroom lessons through real-world encounters. The journey will undoubtedly continue to shape the Class of 2030 as they move forward in their academic and personal formation.
This program is offered annually to 8th-grade students who meet the established criteria for participation. Those who did not attend FOAN took part in a newly developed program celebrating local heritage, Founding of a City (FOAC), which honored Miami's rich history. More information about FOAC will be featured in the upcoming Alumni Magazine.
A special thank you to all 8th-grade teachers, chaperones, and administrators whose dedication made both of these meaningful experiences possible. Information regarding next year’s FOAN trip will be shared with the Class of 2031 at the start of the following school year. To view the photo album from this year’s trip, click here.
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: communications@belenjesuit.org
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: communications@belenjesuit.org
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School was founded in 1854 in Havana, Cuba, by Queen Isabel II of Spain. The task of educating students was assigned to the priests and brothers of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), whose teaching tradition is synonymous with academic excellence and spiritual discipline. In 1961, the new political regime of Cuba confiscated the school's property and expelled the Jesuit faculty. The School was re-established in Miami the same year, and over the next decade, continued to grow. Today, Belen Jesuit is situated on a 34-acre site in western Dade County, just minutes away from downtown Miami.