America Prepares for Inauguration Day

The 2012 presidential election cycle reaches its official conclusion on Monday. That's when citizens and elected officials will gather in Washington, D.C., to witness President Barack Obama be sworn in for his second term in office.

According to the 20th Amendment of Constitution, the current President's term ends at noon on January 20 after serving out a four-year term. The incoming or reelected President is then sworn in by taking the Oath of Office, also established by the Constitution. The Oath is administered by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

"The inauguration acknowledges the change of administration under the Constitution, in a peaceful transfer of power," explained William B. Allen, a retired dean and professor from James Madison College at Michigan State University. "This Oath, taken by all Presidents, is necessary before being allowed to execute the role of the President and it is required by the Constitution. It is a reminder of the source of their authority and the limitations on that authority."

"Young people should learn early that such testimony is an affirmation of their liberty and what it takes to sustain it," Allen added.

Read the rest of the story on the Scholastic News Kids Press Corps website!

—Kid Reporter Jacob Schroeder

Photo: Barack Obama, joined by his wife Michelle, and daughters Sasha and Malia, takes the oath of office from Chief Justice John Roberts to become the 44th president of the United States, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)   

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