For four days, students at Pleasant Valley High School get a fall break before the second quarter begins.
But for some students, this four day break begins even earlier. A rising number of students are missing class the days before and even after the long weekend to take advantage of the break and get the most out of it.
This could be because flight deals are cheaper on Thursday or even Wednesday afternoon. “A Hopper study found midweek departures are a good way to save, with tickets on Tuesdays through Thursdays generally a better deal, especially within the United States,” says Forbes contributor Becky Pokora.
But it is not always about the money. Some students just need more time to refuel and refresh as the provided break is not enough time for them to do it.
Teachers are acknowledging this trend too, with many adjusting tests and projects to ensure that students don’t miss important exams. But this shift is leading to more pressure on the students to “lock in” before the break and creates more anxiety in the earlier days of the week.
For students, this idea of cramming all the exams feels unfair. Many students would prefer to have more time to study rather than have a “dead” two days where nothing productive is done, since most students are off enjoying their early break.
On the other hand, though some students share that lots of new learning is crammed in the days prior. For some students, they are expected to study and retain that information throughout the break. “It feels like tests have piled up more after break than before break for me,” expressed senior Abby Kunkel.
The two days before break and even cramming in learning prior to the break lead many students and even staff to question whether or not a longer break is needed to balance tests and an actual break. Finding the balance of the tests and recharge is difficult, and many would argue that this issue would be similar if a longer break were given.
But for now, social media and apps such as Instagram will be filled with many posts of students traveling, and some students, who are not traveling during fall break, will experience major fear of missing out for these students. It becomes difficult for students not to compare their breaks with each other.
Despite social media pressure, staying home has its perks. Students can sleep in, enjoy the homework-free afternoons and take time to explore hobbies.
But some students are even taking their time to get ahead of their schoolwork as teachers give work for the days after fall break. “I don’t feel super rested after fall break, especially since I spend a lot of it doing homework and competing at a cheer competition,” shared Kunkel.
Regardless of plans, there is a common theme for these breaks; students mentally need a break and a chance to breathe. Whether that is going somewhere to escape reality or catching up on much-needed rest at home, PVHS students will definitely make their upcoming break count.
