LEBANON — Scott Charlton has never been to Africa, but he plans to become a regular visitor.

        The Lebanon High School biology teacher will travel to Kenya and Tanzania for the first time in July, leading a safari of up to 18 people.

        “It's a good opportunity to learn about different cultures and concerns in the region,” said Mr. Charlton.

        His wife, Michele, and son, Josh, have been to Africa twice and felt such a connection to the continent and its people that they wanted to go back. Mr. Charlton decided it was time for him to go along.

        Mr. Charlton said his son, who has often been a substitute teacher at the junior and high school here, always loved animals. Going to Africa enhanced what he studied at Indiana University, environmental enrichment for zoo animals. And for Mr. Charlton's wife, a retired sociologist, Africa offers opportunities to study social relations among the many tribes and nations.

        Mr. Charlton, who hopes to complete all travel plans within the next few weeks, said the tour can accommodate 18 to 22 people.

        The 18-day, all-inclusive wildlife safari, which begins July 6, at a cost of $5,750, will showcase the best of East Africa's attractions, from the vast savannas of the Serengeti to a visit to the Samburu Game Reserve.

        Organizing the safari gives Mr. Charlton the chance to see first-hand what he's only read about or seen on television.

        Mr. Charlton feels the experience will make him a better teacher. While on the trip, he plans to take plenty of pictures. He will incorporate them into his teaching curriculum, when studying species of animals or wildlife.

        Eleven people have already committed to the trip. While Mr. Charlton said he understands the concerns of people who are fearful of travel in the aftermath of Sept. 11, he believes such educational travel is important. That's why he hopes to organize such trips every year.

       To learn more, contact Mr. Charlton at 899-9515.

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