For Mundelein students, Greece is the word

Mundelein High School English teacher Alexander Kapotas' lessons about the Greek gods and goddesses may enthrall students, but he figured there's a better way to teach teens about ancient mythology.

Next week, he'll lead 40 students and recent graduates and eight adults to Greece to explore the land that gave birth to some of the world's most enduring myths.

"(There's) learning outside the classroom," said Kapotas, the son of a Greek immigrant. "The chance to travel can be one of the best learning experiences."

Kapotas and his group will be in Greece from June 5 to 17. They'll visit Athens, Crete, Delphi and other sites of historical and mythological importance.

Not all of the teens on the trip are students in Kapotas' mythology class. Five are of Greek heritage.

"They haven't been (to Greece) or their exposure to the culture has been limited," Kapotas said.

Among that group is George Mouzakiotis, who said he's excited to see his family's cultural heritage firsthand. The 16-year-old junior may also get to see his grandfather, who summers in Greece.

Kapotas has been to Greece five times: twice with his family and three times on his own.

He called his first trip, made at the age of 13, a life-changing experience.

"When I went, I realized the world was a lot bigger than the town I was living in," Kapotas said. "I hope the kids walk away with an appreciation for other cultures and other people's values."

Nick Downey, who graduated from Mundelein High this month, said he never took a vacation during his high school career because he was busy with football.

His schedule will be full during college, too, so "this is my one opportunity to go out of the country and see what the world has to offer," said Downey, 18.

The international journey will cost each student about $3,000. Meals, lodging and a four-day cruise are included.

Co-interim Superintendent Linda Hanson expects Kapotas will make the trip exciting for students.

"Today's education should be about a global world," Hanson said. "What better way is there for them to understand what a global world is than for them to experience other cultures?"