thebox outofthebox Andros Adventure for a Day The 10th Grade Bonding Experience by Pauline N. Mamouzellos M.Ph. ACS Academy Science Teacher and Trip Coordinator
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n October 19, 2012, 45 10th grade students skeptically set out to visit the island of Andros in hopes of bonding and expanding their horizons. Frankly, I also did not quite know what to expect, as it was a packed itinerary that included sea travel. It was a relief to be greeted by my cheerful colleagues at 6:15 a.m. on that chilly morning in the ACS parking lot, and an even greater relief to see all the students dropped off by their parents in a timely fashion.
At the port of Rafina, as the wind wound around the docked boats and the lights twinkled as the night’s darkness crept away, I felt that the group glowed with a very positive electrical buzz. Students chattered, teachers parented, the crisp, salty air rose, greeted and accompanied us through the boat ride, around Andros and back to Athens. Traveling is always so exciting! It fulfills promises, dreams and wishes for each individual and gives a sense of freedom. I believe that on this day all of us felt this, each in a unique, special way. Andros did not let us down. As the bus traversed the island, students pondered on rock formations, ancient ruins, architecture of new and older structures, and the exhibitions of the Archaeological and Modern Art Museums. Church structures, statues and parts of the “Old City’ were seen and admired by all. The pH of beautiful natural springs, surrounded by green leafy blankets and dirt roads, and the ocean waters were measured. In Hora students went around looking at shops, chose somewhere to eat and played at the beach. At one point we discussed going to one of the several monasteries, but as I glanced up at the location of Agios Panteleimonas, I regret-
fully felt it needed to be saved for another time. Truly it lay up in the mountains caressed by the morning clouds, much closer to the heavenly than what lay below. Students went through the day in groups with their assigned teacher, asking and answering questions. Many new friends were made and many friendships grew, while students also developed closer ties with their teachers. The most frequent criticism was that the trip was not long enough. Many of those who did not attend, regretted their absence. On the way back, despite a delay requiring we return to Andros port, the students worked busily on their assignments. We were proud of their exemplary behavior and the local residents admired their manners. I felt a personal satisfaction that all had gone well and that surely the experience could be repeated again next year. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my colleagues Vassili Gaki, Sana Kassem, Matina Katsiyianni, Joan Margaritis, William Papatassos, and Chris Perakis for all their support and a job well done. And a special thank you to Mr. Gerbracht, Academy Principal, for his support.
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1 Group picture with the “Unknown Sailor” at Hora-Rivas Square, Andros. 2 Menites SpringsTeacher chaperones from left to right-Chris Perakis, Vasilli Gakis, William Papatassos, Pauline Mamouzellos, and Joan Margaritis in the background.
winter 2012
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