11 weeks. That is the longest stretch all year between two school breaks. There are a couple of half days here and there, but until Thanksgiving break, students are out of luck. For some students, they may not struggle during this period, but others may have a harder time being in school for so long. Fall time is one of the busiest with sports and school. Students are still adjusting to the workload of their classes and practices are another thing on a student’s plate. I understand that it may affect schooling by decreasing the number of learning days for another break. But, if it will help someone’s mental health and well-being, it is worth it.

For students, especially freshmen, adjusting to the workload of high school can be stressful. Also, being a student-athlete can be even more challenging. Students, including myself, have experienced this firsthand. Most sports require practice right after school, eliminating the relief of going home after a long day. Sports can sometimes take my mind off of things going on at home or school, so in that case, it can be a distraction. In my personal experience, having a vacation that would break up some of the stressful days with sports and school, would support a student’s success.

Having another break would also benefit students who have grappled with turning assignments in on time. A couple of days off can increase school productivity dramatically, which I have experienced greatly. The extra time aspect can help the student to be more relaxed about an assignment rather than rushing through it. This can ultimately lead to a better effort on the assignment or even a test. Increasing shorter deadlines nearing the end of the quarter can lead to academic burnout by a student completing so many assignments in a short amount of time.

Overall, a school break in the fall can break up the stress over a long period of time, even if it means adding extra school days to the end of the year.