Students need breaks to rest and recharge; however, not all breaks are useful. While April break makes logical sense, February break feels unnecessary and a bit disruptive. Instead of having two short breaks between the two months, schools should consider replacing them with one longer, two-week break in March. This would allow the school year to be more consistent, reduce stress and even allow students to get out of school earlier in June for a longer summer break.
Currently, the timing of February break is unnecessary and abrupt. Students come back from winter break as soon as the new year hits and six weeks later, they’re off again. It interrupts the school year when students are just getting used to new schedules as the semester changes at the end of January. It also disrupts winter athletics heading into playoffs. Once students arrive back in the final days of February after their break, it’s only another six weeks before yet another break in April.
A two week break in March would positively benefit teachers as well as students. Teachers often rush to make time for tests, quizzes and major assignments before each break, causing even more stress for students. One longer break would allow teachers to fit everything in at one time instead of two. It would also align better with college spring breaks, helping high school students to visit campuses and consider potential post high school opportunities.
Additionally, students who take AP classes often have exams soon after April break. A March recess would provide a more reasonable timeline for students and teachers to begin preparation for these exams.
Families who choose to go away on vacations during these breaks would also benefit. If students travel to a different country or even visit somewhere locally during this time, there is only so much they could fit into their schedule in only one week. Having two weeks off instead of one allows for more relaxation. Families who chose to fly or drive far wouldn’t have to pull their kids out of school early or extend trips beyond the break, reducing student absences.
Two short breaks in February and April aren’t logical, but a single two-week break in March would provide for students and facilitate a more reasonable rest, making the school year more structured. It is time to rethink the WPS school calendar and make beneficial changes.
