Washington spoke to the kids in Ms. Park's 5th grade and Mr. Raign's 6th grade class about how to earn academic scholarships to college. Washington also visited the kindergarten, 2nd and 3rd grade classes of  Ms. McVicker, Ms Eckard and Ms. Hawkins where he read stories to an incredibly enthusiastic audience.

Washington, known as "The Sponge Bob" was greeted with a song by the students from the popular Nickelodeon animated TV show and given a card in appreciation for the visit.

He encouraged the kids to READ, READ, READ and added how important is was for them to do their very best in school. 

In addition to reading to the kids, Washington explained the history behind his nickname and the fact of how proud he was to be a role model. 

Washington thoughts on his visit were. "The school visit was great. Some of the kids came down to see me play at Barry Farms and in the AND1 game on TV.  It made me feel good that the kids looked up to me and were happy I came to visit them.  I talked to the 6th graders about life and the choices you have to make and the obstacles you will face.  I just want to give back to the community in anyway I can and if I am in a position to help others then that is what I would like to do.  I feel very excited about helping the youth more than anything.  They want me to come back and I am going to do that."

Ms. Angie Vick, one of the coordinators of Washington's visit, mentioned how much these kids looked up to the players who were involved in the Goodman League in Barry Farms this summer. "Some of these kids worship these players.  They know them all.  They watch everything they do.  I'm happy that Andrew decided to visit the kids. They are watching and mimicking everyday!"

Washington told students he hoped to return before going to join his team overseas.

For images of the visit go to www.dcmetrosports.com/collegebasketballgallery