Austin Tingley Valley View Middle School sixth-graders Austin and Connor Tingley have been chosen to attend a leadership conference in Washington, D.C. in August.

The twin brothers were selected by teachers and staff because of their 4.0 grade point average and their leadership skills.

Austin said that going to Washington will be a great opportunity and a tremendous experience. "It will provide mea great foundation to the new things I will be learning throughout my educational years," he said. "I am also very honored to be nominated by my school for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I wish that everyone could have this opportunity like I have to see where our United States historyresides."

Austin is looking forward to seeing the many national monuments as well as meeting with elected officials and key Congressional staff members on Capitol Hill.“This will definitely be a summer that I will never forget," he said. His brother, Connor, said that having been chosen to attend the leadership conference is a great honor and privilege.“I think that this trip will be a unique learning experience," he said.

Connor Tingley "We are looking forward tovisiting historical sitessuch asCapitol Hill, as well as the National Museum ofAmerican History, Washington'smonuments and memorials and Harpers Ferry. I also can't wait to learn about America's history along with other students from around the United States," Connor said.

During their stay this summer at theJunior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, the boys will explore historic Harpers Ferry and attend a sleepover in the interactive Mary

land Science Center.They'll learn about the presidents and first ladies; visit the Museum of American History; explore the Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans and Korean War memorials; and receive a VIP view of the city. They'll also have the opportunity to meet Congressional leaders.