WHS Group Returns Home From Africa

The Westfield High School students and teachers conducting research in Africa successfully returned to the United States on Sunday.

"I am happy to report that all 11 students and both chaperones are home in one piece," WHS earth science teacher Sara Soriente said in a statement Sunday evening.

Soriente and WHS physics teachers Josh Garodnick led the students to South Africa and Mozambique for over two weeks conducting environmental research with the Operation Wallecia group. During the time spent in South Africa, the group researched the impact of wildlife and controlled burns on the bush. While in Mozambique, the group scuba dived with sharks and researched coral reefs.

During the trip, the group also intereacted with students from around the world and learned about local culture.