While many people know something about Greek mythology, not many have the opportunity to experience it firsthand. But in the summer of 2011, some current South freshmen may have that chance. Michele Telschow, an Open English teacher, is planning a trip to Greece this summer for her freshman classes, to learn about Greek mythology and culture firsthand. Telschow says that she has talked about it for three years, and this year, she said “I’m doing it.”

The nine-day trip, which is scheduled for June 13-21, 2011, will include stops in Athens, Olympia and Delphi. Students will visit temples, like those of the gods Zeus and Apollo, as well as Olympic stadiums and museums. There is also the option of a three-day extension to the tour, a cruise around the islands of the Mediterranean Sea, including Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos. The trip is through Education First Tours, an organization that specializes in international and educational travel for students. Telschow said that, while the trip is “rather spendy,” her goal is to have 50 kids, with her ninth-graders getting priority, but if there are older students that really want to go and have taken her Mythology class, she wouldn’t turn them away. Freshmen Sammy Johnson and Grace Chadwick say that they are very excited about the “great opportunity,” and hope to go on the trip. Both agree that they could learn a lot more about Greek mythology by seeing it in person, but would also like to have fun and make connections on the trip. For those interested, an informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 10th, at 7 pm at South.