Preparations are under way for President-Elect Barack Obama's inauguration in 11 days. But dozens of local people are also getting ready — they're heading to the U.S. Capitol for the big event.

It’s a moment Kyle Turner and Mari Henderson will remember for the rest of their lives.

They aren't what you might think of as "dignitaries;” but both are leaders in their communities, both have been to the Capitol before, and both have personal invitations to witness history on January 20.

Both are also in middle school.

It's all part of a program called the Junior National Leadership Conference. Both students were nominated by teachers in 6th grade to join the program. Mari was nominated by her science teacher at Berrien Springs Middle School. Kyle was nominated by his language arts teacher at Schmucker Middle School.

Now, both have been chosen to attend the inauguration. And they’re pretty excited!

"My mom showed me the letter, and as I was reading it, I started crying tears of joy because I had been on the waiting list for so long!" Mari told WSBT News.

"It's pretty exciting!” Kyle said. “It's such a historic event in our country's history."

But, it will be a learning event for Mari and Kyle, too.

Mari's father is serving in Iraq, and she wants to hear the new president talk about his plans for the war.

Kyle wants to hear how Obama plans to handle the tough economy.

And you can bet they'll both be taking lots of notes … and lots of pictures!

"I got a camera for Christmas!" Kyle said.

After all, an opportunity like this comes along once in a lifetime, and — kid or not — that's, as Kyle said, “pretty cool.”

“It's amazing!” Mari added. “It really shows, no matter who you are, that you can really do anything."

Both students helped raise money to pay for their trip to the Capitol. And there is some work involved when they get there, too. Both Mari and Kyle will share their experiences with their classmates when they get back.