While her students watch the ceremony today on television, Whale Branch Middle School teacher Chavon Coleman will witness in person the swearing-in of the nation's 44th president.

The sixth-grade history teacher traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of a week-long People to People International leadership program that will allow 2,000 students from across the county to attend Barack Obama's inauguration.

Coleman attended the inauguration of George W. Bush in 2005, but the Obama supporter said, "This year it's a whole different level of excitement. I am a huge fan. He's a phenomenal person, an awesome speaker. He's great, great, great."

As a teacher leader for the People to People program this week, Coleman is responsible for helping a group of 12 students study the leadership of past presidents as they visit national landmarks and museums.

After she and her students attend the swearing-in ceremony and inaugural address, they will attend People to People's inaugural ball.

Coleman, who said she has encouraged her students to follow election news throughout the school year, will try to call or video conference with them today to discuss the historical significance of the ceremony.

Read the complete story at beaufortgazette.com