The Final Word

I've been given the task to sum up the entire trip with a Final Word.  What a challenge!!  Six exciting days with 13 fantastic kids and adults in one of the most beautiful, breath-taking environments on Earth.  For most of us, this was our first trip to Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons--for four of us, we had been here before.  Nonetheless, each day provided new and exciting adventures for all of us.  From the flight to Jackson Hole via Dallas, Texas (how ironic Mr. Burcin), to our tram ride 10,000 feet up the mountain, to the calm and relaxing evening float with Mike from Barker-Ewing, our journey began on a great note.  As the days progressed, we explored more and more of the splendor that is the Grand Tetons and Jackson Hole.  We took in all the great sites and learned many things about the environment, each other, and ourselves.  We worked together to conquer some challenging tasks and became a great team.  To all the students who came along, I hope you've gained a greater appreciation of this area and I hope you will apply what you've learned to your own home in Lancaster.  It's been a lot of fun spending the week with you.  To Mike Burcin, thank you for pioneering this trip and for your ongoing help and support.  To Dave and Kim, it's been a blast working with you and getting to know you better.  I look forward to returning often to the Grand Tetons and Teton Science Schools.
Jeff Landis

P.S. Go away SCARP!

Another final word..... Each year that I am privilaged enough return to this magnificent location, my reward is seeing our L-S kids discover Grand Teton National Park and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.  This evening during our closing ceremony we went around in a circle describing what we learned this week that was meaningful to us.  Instead of one trip around, the kids kept going and going and going. Any trace of silliness melted away, and each kid shared their heartfelt appreciation of their experience.  If each student brings home even a small piece of what this week meant to them, they will carry a life-long understanding of why natural places like this are important.  I need to repeat Jeff's thank you to Mr. Burcin whose vision it was to make places like this real for kids from L-S.  We missed you.  Additionally, thanks to the Teton Science School for again delivering a week of exciting and relevant instruction in one of the most beautiful places on earth.. Finally, I am grateful to the parents who trusted Jeff, Dave and I with their kids for a cross-country trip.  Your kids have been a pleasure.  You would have been proud.
Kim Kann