Check out The COPPERMINE EXPEDITION 2012.  I can see a ton of parallels to my vision, which is on a smaller scale but same big idea:

Statement of Objectives
The proposed expedition will take six participants from Yellowknife, N.W.T. to Kugluktuk, NU, by canoe and develop educational materials to bring the journey to Canadian classrooms. In pursuing this opportunity, expedition members wish to further develop their careers as educators in combination with a passion for outdoor and experiential education. In doing so, we hope to be able to contribute in a positive manner to the understanding and appreciation of Canadian history and geography through various forms of media. Our objective is to expand the geographic appreciation, and knowledge of this remote region of the Canadian wilderness, encouraging thoughtful debate and discussion on both environmental and
economic themes.

In support of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society’s mandate to make Canada better known to Canadians and to the world, while on the expedition, we will be creating a series of interactive lesson plans for classrooms. We will be submitting these to the Canadian Council for Geographic Education, and upon completion of the trip, these lesson plans will be made available through this website. Students and teachers will be able to explore the route and find a range of materials appropriate to their grade level.

From Canoe and Kayak Magazine:

Coppermine 2012

An ambitious 1,000-mile odyssey across the Canadian North

Why is it important that young Canadians learn about this part of their country?
Stef Superina: Canada’s north, its rich history and diverse geography, are all too commonly skipped in our history textbooks. As a country that derives much of its wealth from natural resources, the Canadian north will play an important role in our country’s growth. Engaging our youth in discussion on economic and environmental themes is integral to the sustainable development of our country’s resource base, as they will ultimately become the decision makers of the future.

I think I said somewhere:  The Missouri River, its rich history and diverse geography, is all too commonly skipped in our history textbooks.  Well, maybe not those exact words, but in similar concept.

How cool it would be to have support from a geographical society!?  But then, I’d need a crew.  Then, it would no longer be a solo trek.  Then, it would be an occupation, and I’d never make it to the classroom with the children.  Being in the classroom with the children is important, too.  I will just have to make do with less support, and more creativity, resourcefulness, and energy.  And, perhaps, a Coppermine will help.  (…and a really good camera!)