Three APS teachers conquered what few only dream of: climbing the highest mountain in Africa. Columbia Middle School Science Teacher
Greg Justis,fourth-grade Laredo Elementary Teacher
Courtney Nelsen and Aurora Central High School Science Teacher
Janet Nord successfully climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro this past July.
At approximately 19,350 feet, the mountain provided an unforgettable experience. Justis, Nelsen and Nord were part of a group of 21 teachers who attempted to conquer the mountain. Only 12 made it to the summit.
"When I got to the top, it was indescribable," said Nord. "I was excited and miserable at the same time."
Nord says the first three days featured clear mornings and cloudy afternoons. Then it was time for the real test. The group hit the trail at midnight and reached the summit eight hours later.
"It was a long and trying day," said Nord. "I was down to putting one foot in front of the other and no longer enjoying the scenery. Once the sun came up, things improved."
Because of the mountain's location and elevation, climbers experience nearly every climate type on earth during their journey to the top.
During their time in Africa, the APS teachers also stopped by a local village, visited game parks and took part in a safari.
The University of Colorado at Denver sponsored the trekking experience as part ofits science program for teachers.