As students prepare to close their Chromebooks after enduring the long months of the school year, many excitedly look at what their summers will look like. Underclassmen are able to use the three months to relax or do whatever they may please, while seniors are able to use the time to prepare for college, begin their future careers or  experience the world around them. While there are many ways students are able to spend their summer break, the break looks different for each student.

“I plan to gather any and all dorm necessities and/or school materials,” Payton Bickerstaff (12) said. “Though I mainly plan to spend time with my family and make sure I go to graduation parties before we all go on our own path.”

While quite a few seniors plan to spend their summer preparing for their secondary education, others prepare for their future careers.

“I want to utilize my summer to work and earn money,” Jake Hilberry (12) said.

Summer is the perfect time for students, both graduated and still in school, to earn money. As students are no longer obligated to go to school for the next three months, many are able to be more flexible throughout the day, depending on transportation availability.

Throughout the summer, the community offers a vast amount of activities that students are able to participate in, one of the biggest being the Skybacher “More Than Sports” camps. The camps are available for students from Kindergarten through sixth grade to participate, while older students have the opportunity to volunteer.

“I enjoy working with the kids [at the Skybacher Camps] while also doing things I love and staying active,” Farisa Roberts (11) said.

While many students fill their schedules with volunteer hours, jobs or preparation for college, others plan to spend their break exploring the world and all of the beauty it has to offer.

“My family and I plan to go on a cruise this summer, we will get to stop at places like Bermuda and many other countries as well” Trinity Vojtko (11) said.

Although students are commonly seen packing their schedules with a variety of activities, whether that includes things such as jobs or volunteering, a large number of students also plan to spend their summer days relaxing. The time given allows them to provide themselves a break from school and other responsibilities.

“I plan on going out with my friends and having as much fun as I can,” Ashley Benavidez-Martinez (9) said.

Summer gives students a vast amount of opportunities. While some pack their schedule and while others use the time to relax, for many it is a much-needed break from school and the challenges that the year throws each student’s way.