Teacher returns from Antarctica with lessons for students

SALEM, Va. (AP) — The middle school geography teacher plunged into the icy waters of the Weddell Sea off the coast of Antarctica. But in an extraordinary journey, it wasn't her deepest dive.

Judith Painter, who teaches eighth-grade at Andrew Lewis Middle in Salem, was immersed in the frozen continent during winter break. She studied the majestic waters, climate and wildlife through a National Geographic fellowship program for teachers.

The polar plunge was an optional activity for voyagers. But it was one Painter couldn't miss, despite the 20-degree weather. "My students will probably love the look on my face when they see the pictures taken after," Painter said.

Painter has a trove of photographs she plans to share with her students. ..