Summer of Exploration from the American West to Rapa Nui

Camille Tedeschi has been a world traveler for her entire adult life. The Huntington High School social studies teacher has enjoyed adventures across the globe, to all but one continent. She continued visiting new places this summer.

Ms. Tedeschi’s most recent incredible journey brought her through Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, and the distant island of Rapa Nui. In Montana, the teacher explored breathtaking mountains, rivers, ranches and historic sites while learning more about the people and events that shaped the American West.

“I fell in love with Yellowstone National Park,” Ms. Tedeschi said. “I also had the privilege of spending time with former Huntington student, Holly Helstrom from the Class of 2011 while traveling in Montana.”

The journey continued through Wyoming, where national parks and dramatic landscapes offered opportunities to connect geography with history. In South Dakota, Ms. Tedeschi visited important landmarks and learned about the rich history and cultures of the Great Plains.

The adventure then took the teacher thousands of miles away to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, where the famous Moai statues provided a fascinating look into the island's ancient Polynesian culture. Throughout the summer, each destination offered new lessons about geography, culture, history, and the ways people have shaped and been shaped by their environments.

Now back in the classroom for year No. 25 at Huntington High School, Ms. Tedeschi will bring these firsthand experiences to students and help make social studies come alive.