Classroom to Capitol: Retiring Walla Walla High School teacher to attend State of the Union

WALLA WALLA – Walla Walla High School civics teacher Bill Plucker is trading his classroom for the U.S. Capitol this week to attend the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C.

Plucker, currently in his 33rd and final year of teaching, was named the winner of the “Classroom to the Capitol” contest after being nominated by several of his students. He will join U.S. Rep. Michael Baumgartner for the tomorrow’s (Tuesday) event, which Plucker described as the “ultimate civic and professional experience”.

“In class we study, we research, but to actually experience it in person and bring that experience back to the classroom is a humbling experience,” Plucker said. “I feel very special to be able to go”.

Throughout his three-decade career, Plucker has focused on teaching students the foundations of American democracy through the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. While the contest provided the ticket to the prestigious event, Plucker noted that the trip is not taxpayer-funded; he is covering his own travel and lodging expenses.

As he prepares to retire at the end of this academic year, Plucker reflected on his time in the classroom, specifically student impact, as he noted that he will miss his students most after 33 years of service.

His retirement will include working on his family farm and training his hunting dog for bird hunting.

Plucker is scheduled to return to his students next Thursday to share firsthand insights and stories from the capital.

“It has been a privilege to share my passion for history and civics with generations of Walla Walla students,” Plucker said.

Photo via WWPS

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Elkhorn Media Group