High school is filled with students trying to prepare for the future. They work hard in college-level classes to earn additional college credits, aiming to get ahead after high school. Despite their efforts in those classes, they may experience stress and fatigue. When the school year gets closer to an end, students start making their summer plans and get restless for the school year to end.
“School stresses me out and it makes me burnt out,” Mia Brown said.
Students who do their best and really try all year lose motivation close to the end of the year
Summer is filled with friends’ parties and endless freedom for many. Although some teens spend parts of their summer working, either just for the summer or continuing their part-time job from the school year, many do not work at all. Many high school students have licenses, giving them more freedom to make those summer plans a reality. They plan camping trips or all-day drives around town to go to shops.
“Summer finally gives me a break from school,” Brown said.
Brown has many plans. Come summer she’s continuing her work at Kootenai County Hospital and wants to find a way to balance spending time with her friends and playing volleyball.
Summer is proven to reduce stress, improve sleep patterns, and increase emotional regulation, allowing students’ brains to rejuvenate from the draining school year. It also increased serotonin and vitamin D, which help manage mood and anxiety. Taking a break from a hectic schedule and allowing students to pursue their passions is crucial for their personal growth.
Although having a schedule for some students provides stability. Without school, people have to make their own schedule around work, friends, and family.
“There are so many opportunities to get out of my house and enjoy the world around me,” Laina Busicchia said.
Closer to the end of summer, the state fair is a big community hit. Many of Lakeland’s students take friends or dates to the fair for rides, food, and other events. It gives students a chance to do one last thing before the next school year starts again.
Although the fair is filled with all the fun things, some people go for the 4-H and the FFA. Animal showing is a big part of some people’s lives, and as soon as fair season comes around, they are getting their animals ready.
Summer is filled with friends and adventures, something everyone is excited for.