October 19, 2009 Obama surprises students in Maryland Play video

(NECN: Silver Spring, MD) - President Barack Obama made an unannounced visit to a Maryland school today, to congratulate the students and teachers on their hard work.

Obama stopped by Viers Mill Elementary School, where he met with third and fourth-grade students during their lunch period.

The school receives federal poverty aid and has been celebrated for closing the achievement gap between minority children and other students.

The president made his way through the cafeteria, shaking hands with students and asking them what they were reading.

*Material from The Associated Press used in this report*