Africa

What an extraordinary trip!  So well planned!  I have traveled quite a bit, but this is a trip I can't seem to stop talking about. From the magnificent animals to the wonderful guides -- every day was a new adventure with tons of variety. My 20 year old daughter came along and was excited as I was. We will remember this for the rest of our lives.    Elizabeth Schreiber, Monument, Colorado

Africa

What a fantastic trip! We saw lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, rhinoceros, water buffalo, monkeys, gorillas, zebras, crocodiles, chimps, warthogs, many antelope-like creatures, birds galore...the list is endless. We learned so much! The people of Uganda are such sweet, kind people. The trip exceeded my expectations by 1000 times!  Allison Berry, Pierce, Colorado

Africa

After discovering the culture and countryside of Uganda, the highlight of the trip was the rafting on the Nile River... a class 5 river!!!  That ranks pretty high on the coolness scale!!!  Darrah Yates, Denver Colorado

Africa

Pearl of Africa: This was an absolutely amazing tour! From the very beginning everything was well organized, a seemingly impossible task in a third world country. Our on-sight guides, SimonPeter and Geoff, led us through some truly inspiring scenery and added to the experience with a wealth of knowledge: birds, animals, plants, and the underlying cultural implications contained in day-to-day living. We tried strange foods, and found them to be delicious. We talked with locals, and found that they are working hard to make Uganda better. We saw education first hand, and realized that the pictures of 50 students in a closet sized classroom is not really accurate, they should show 90 students. For me, the two highlights of the trip happened within minutes of each other. The first was the realization that we really were standing on a red ant nest about six feet across and the ensuing "Ants in your Pants Dance," which nobody has video of, thankfully. The second was when a juvenile male gorilla, weighing in at about 250 pounds, brushed by Carol and poked Kathy's shoe. Just checking to see that her laces were properly tied, a lesson we should take to heart, and to the classroom. This was an emotional rollercoaster; I learned things about a country, a people and about myself. The six credits don’t seem like enough. Would I do it again? I'm signing up right now! Bill Fairchild, Boulder, Colorado 

General

I have experienced three academic adventures with Joyce and Melanie - and can't wait for the next one!  Their courses are always incredible learning experiences that I apply in my teaching over and over again!" Laura Smith Ipswick, Massachusetts

General

I went on both the Green River Trip and the Colorado River Trip with Melanie and Joyce as well as a Ghost Town Tour and Tour of the Hidden Ruins.  I didn't know it was possible to learn so much while having so much fun.  Their synergistic approach to learning is powerful and effective, allowing group members to learn from each other.  A wonderful team spirit grows as the class progresses, turning total strangers into friends who respect and admire one another's contributions.  I not only learned about the class subject matter, but I learned a great deal about "learning."  These are wonderful ladies who have perfected the concept of the "outdoor classroom."  And the food is off the charts!  I recommend any and all of their classes without reservation.  Sharon Patrick Grand Junction, Colorado

General

"These graduate classes have been the best educational experiences I have ever had. A major bonus is the lasting friendships that were made during the classes." David Swinger 4th Grade Teacher Fruita, Colorado

Mexico

What amazing opportunities this class provides. The Mayan ruins, roads, cenotes and artifacts really make it possible to construct a picture of what life was like for these people. Anyone with an interest in the Maya culture and the Yucatan peninsula will love this class. The reef ecology and the recovery after the hurricane is an extra added bonus. What an amazing adventure! Karen Crosson Palmer High School Colorado Springs, CO

A true cultural experience. This trip takes you to a Mexico that is a natural classroom and not a resort! An enriching experience that quenches your sense of adventure and applies to any teaching situation. Jody Rodewald English Teacher Milwaukee, WI

Grand Canyon

Great trips, well organized, educational, enjoyable with excellent participants! I enjoyed the Grand Canyon Trip so much that I did it a second time two years later and might do it a third time in the future. Richard Pontius College Professor Ogden, Utah

Colorado River, Green River

I have traveled all over the world taking courses and studying in order to prepare to teach AP Environmental Science. By far the two most valuable courses were the Colorado River Course and The Green River course. The content was not only interesting but teacher friendly with many lessons ready to use when I returned to my own classroom. Along with the academic benefits came great friendships that I will value for a lifetime. Darrell King Science Department Chair Brewer High School Brewer, Maine

Colorado River, Green River

The Colorado River and Green River trips are a must do for any science teacher and a should do for anyone who has lost sight of what is really valuable in life. Diana Collura 8th grade science Cecelia Snyder Middle School Bensalem, PA

Green River

Green River was an unforgettable experience.  Seeing Yellowstone Falls, the crystal clear waters of the Green River, recounting the path of American explorers, and traveling together with teaching peers have been life shaping memories.  After experiences like this, I am more invigorated and energized as a teacher and my students enjoyed the first hand accounts injected into lessons.

You’ve not had food in the wilderness until you’ve been on the receiving end of a meal from Joyce.  Sure I learned a lot, but the food and meal times were inspirational.

Interacting with peers and observing the chemistry between Melanie and Joyce are aspects of a river trip that can only be described as “delightful”, unless you prefer “hilarious” or perhaps “incredible”!

Where else can you go on a hike and stand on the mountain tops where every drop of rain and every snowflake that comes down is the start of their journey to become part of the mighty Colorado River?  The trips I have taken with the Colorado River Trip have provided experiences that are not only amazing, but educationally challenging and dynamic. Tim Scott Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado River Trip

The Colorado River Trip was my first experience in the West and Southwest. I could go on and on, but simply put - it is amazing! I'm not normally a group traveler, but these people are organized, fun to travel with and definitely take you off the beaten path. The most meaningful 5 credits I have ever earned!! Jody Rodewald English Teacher Milwaukee, WI

Colorado River

The journey into the southwest was utterly amazing. Its geology is something you have to see up close and in person to truly appreciate and understand. Our entry into Canyon Lands National Park was like arriving on another planet. As far as the eye could see there was no sign of human development, only the most unusual formations of rock the ancient seas had carved. Class was held on the top of what looked like a 100 foot mushroom, and as the sun set everything took on a brilliant orange glow. Lisa Manzi Ipswich, Massachusetts

Ireland

The trip to Ireland was fantastic! The instructors were extremely organized with sight seeing details, reservations at lovely Bed/Breakfast homes, and daily printed handouts featuring historical places to be viewed. I fell in love with the Irish culture and want to return again Maggie Sawyer Colorado Springs, Colorado

Ireland

As a Murphy and now a Flannagan, I was so excited to be on a trip to Ireland. It was fantastic. Joyce and Melanie are the perfect guides. They have an impressive knowledge of Ireland, have great organizational skills, are fun and friendly, are great communicators and story-tellers--must have a bit of Irish in them--, and gave me a trip of a lifetime. All the places I had heard of in my youth--Dingle Bay, Galway, Tralee, Blarney Castle and so much more. I loved it. I plan to go on the next excursion to Ireland. Gerry Flannagan Colorado Springs, Colorado

Italy

After teaching Ancient Roman history for many years, I know the facts and statistics about the Empire. All the textbook learning does not compare with actually seeing the ancient ruins of the Colosseum, Pantheon, Forum, and Pompeii. Each day as the class traveled through Italy was a whirl wind and I was able to experience treasures that I had only read about. I am so glad that I had the opportunity to take this course through the Colorado School of Mines for it has enriched my life as well the students whose lives I touch. Marcia Wilcox Thornton, Colorado

Italy & Paris

The Italy and the Paris trip were nothing more then a mind blowing, over the top experience As a professional artist and amateur historian I was often brought to the verge of tears by the sights and sounds of these two giants of art and culture. The fun and companionship that was a by product of the travel and the style that the classes were conducted made the trips not only educational but also a delight. I have made friends during these trips that will remain with me the rest of my life. Laughter was defiantly a pleasant and wonderful addition to the classes. An extra bonus to the classes was the way we were taught how to find our way around and function in a foreign country, culture and language. Thanks to Mel and Joyce I feel confident riding public transportation and communicating with the "locals" on my own. They teach a refreshing independence and practicality when in a different country. I would highly recommend any of these classes to everyone from the most experienced traveler to the timid stay at home mouse (which is what I was). Darcy Marquis Art Teacher Colorado Springs, CO

Australia, Green River, Grand Canyon

I've participated in three Colorado River Trip courses through the Colorado School of Mines. My first course was "Reefs and Rainforests Downunder", located in Australia, during the summer of 2006. The experience I had traveling downunder still lives with me. I use my knowledge about the Daintree Rainforest, Undara, The Whitsunday Islands, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef in my 5th Grade science classroom.

In 2007 I participated in the "Green River Trip". Having lived in Wyoming previously, this 11 day course provided me with more knowledge about the water, flora, fauna and geology of the Green River than my two years of residency. Of particular interest to me was learning about the one-of-a-kind Dace fish near the headwaters of the Green River. Also, I discovered one of my favorite spots on earth while enjoying a day trip on the Green in Split Mountain Canyon.

In 2008 I experienced a most spectacular course down the Colorado River on the "Grand Canyon River Trip". A week on the Colorado, in the most mystical location I've ever been so far has left an impression so deep that I've planned another trip next summer with friends and family. Traveling on a boat in the middle of millions of years of geologic history, with no modern day distractions is something everyone needs to experience at least once.

I'm looking forward to next summer's course in......................hmm, I haven't decided yet.

Mary Russell 5th Grade Science Teacher Carbondale Middle School Carbondale, Colorado

Italy & Paris

What amazing views of the peaceful Ligurian Sea as we hiked the trail from Vernazza through Corniglia and Manarola to Riomaggiore.  Taking the boat to Monterossa gave a different view as we cruised past the towns just hiked.  Many, many steps led us back to Vernazza for a lazy afternoon and evening.   Favorite memories besides Cinque Terra... Dinner outside in front of the Pantheon in the rain with the waiters so kindly rearranging umbrellas so we didn't have to move inside.  Exploring Venice and Florence to find our own adventure.  Pompeii and the pride of the guide who explained how Italy celebrated life by providing all citizens with fresh water, toilets, free theater and amphitheater events as well as paved streets and sidewalks and wine bars.  Visiting the Trevi Fountain again and again.  Gelato!   Night rides on the Vaporetto in Venezia!  Nancy Jenkins Phoenix, Arizona

Paris

The trip to Paris with Joyce and Melanie was a delight.  The planning was flawless and allowed for a great balance between what was scheduled and flexibility to venture on our own.  The accommodations were lovely and in a perfect location.  I look forward to traveling with Joyce and Melanie again.  Kay Williams Fort Collins, Colorado

Paris, Scotland, Ireland

Traveling with Joyce Webb & Melanie Phelps is a delightful adventure!  I especially appreciate the work they do a year in advance to insure that each trip is planned out in detail.  What a wonderful way to earn renewal credit by preparing and presenting your research with other educators.   Sharing your project on-site enriches the learning and brings a depth to the travel experience that is unparallel. On our tour of Paris we packed the maximum number of activities into each day and, yet, we still had free time to play on our own!   I especially appreciate the free time we had to do "marathon museum tours" in Paris! They take the guess work out of trying to determine how to see the most during your visit. Our trip to Scotland took me to places I never dreamed that I would get to see.  I came to a whole new appreciation for my Scottish ancestry and am looking forward to another trip with Joyce & Melanie to the UK. Our trip to Ireland with Joyce & Melanie was a delight.  They make sure all the highlights are included on your tour and yet also include some "off the beaten path" adventures. Where these two women get their boundless energy and time to plan every detail of each trip is a mystery!  If I had unlimited funds, I'd go on every adventure they offer! Debra Joyous Colorado Springs, Colorado

Italy

Joyce and Melanie have put together a truly fascinating trip!!   Since it was our first trip to Italy, we wanted to see all the high points, and their itinerary covered it all, with pizzaz!!!   We had a great time!!! Warren and Truda Moreau Lakewood, Colorado

Ireland

The trip to Ireland was fantastic!  The instructors were extremely organized with sight seeing details, reservations at lovely Bed/Breakfast homes, and daily printed handouts featuring historical places to be viewed.  I fell in love with the Irish culture and want to return again Maggie Sawyer Colorado Springs, Colorado

Ireland

As a Murphy and now a Flannagan, I was so excited to be on a trip to Ireland.  It was fantastic.  Joyce and Melanie are the perfect guides.  They have an impressive knowledge of Ireland, have great organizational skills, are fun and friendly, are great communicators and story-tellers--must have a bit of Irish in them--, and gave me a trip of a lifetime.  All the places I had heard of in my youth--Dingle Bay, Galway, Tralee, Blarney Castle and so much more.  I loved it.  I plan to go on the next excursion to Ireland. Gerry Flannagan Colorado Springs, Colorado

Ireland

I didn’t know what to expect from a trip to Ireland with these ladies.  It was fantastic, the places we stayed were charming, and the fresh, homemade breakfasts were wonderful.  Melanie & Joyce are funny, witty & very knowledgeable with Irish history & folklore.  I would not hesitate to go with them again. Pam Little Conifer, Colorado

Scotland

" Traveling in Scotland with the Colorado School of Mines group was a  wonderful and educational experience.  Experiencing modern Scotland,  coupled with a strong historic influence and presence, made for a  well rounded and balanced experience.  I would not trade the wonderful memories I gleaned during my trip to Scotland with the "Mines" group  for anything.  It was breathtaking in every way - and the evening  suppers with newly-found friends over a glass of the local brew were simply the best!  My advice to you:  GO!" Carol Cook Longmont, Colorado

Scotland

Scotland was a fabulous trip. All of the bed and breakfast's we stayed at were absolutely perfect and the owners more that helpful (the breakfasts were beyond belief good and plentiful). Each stop we made was thoughtfully planned and by the time the tour was over is was as though we had seen Scotland - past and present. Most of all your willingness to be flexible for extra stops or impromptu stops was appreciate by all and added to the overall flavor of the experience. Our bus talks before each stop added greatly to our knowledge base as we toured each site. So thank you for the trip of a lifetime! Mary Ellen Bethards Colorado Springs, Colorado

Paris & Scotland

I had never been to Europe before I signed up to do the Paris and Scotland trip. Joyce and Melanie organized and executed the best trip I have ever been on. Their program is a wonderful way to learn how to navigate in a strange city and have everyone involved as a team in dispersing information on the areas that are being visited. The highlight was being able to spend my birthday on the isles of Mull, Staffa and Iona. I now have the confidence to go back to Europe with my husband and show him around. Lisa Sunderland Inverness, Florida

General

Graduate credits should excite the veteran teacher. The Colorado River Trip courses do just that. I have participated in four courses already and will continue again this summer. I find the classes so invigorating. The content is great, but more than that the experience is multifaceted. The research before the course to present jig saws gives you a flavor of what is to come. The car pooling, the camping, the global traveling with other teachers add a new dimension to class. They develop a network of professionals that you can call upon later. The learning through experience is invaluable. I have been on the Green River in canoes, Colorado River in rafts, Caribbean Sea in fins and snorkel and the Seine in a Batobus. What stories I can tell to my classes! I've ended up with so many first hand experiences to share. I have developed lesson plans that I have implemented in my class and just have a plethora of tidbits to offer on many other topics to enliven my teaching. Melanie and Joyce are the mentors for the course, but soon become lifelong friends and resources. My goal is to learn by doing and indeed this happens with these courses.- Mary Fuller Flintstone, Maryland