Students at Green Level came back to school on Monday, December 1st after a much-needed Thanksgiving break, however, there are now 3 long weeks before Winter break. Students got to rest and reset during Thanksgiving break, but now it’s time to get to work and find ways to stay academically motivated.
Throughout the month of November, students only had to endure one 5 day week. They got multiple 3-day weekends and days off from teacher workdays. However, the 3 weeks between Thanksgiving and Winter break are all 5 day weeks. This can be challenging for some students, given the fact that they may be used to shorter weeks. The 5 day weeks don’t leave students much time to rest and catch up on school work.
Junior Emma Green is taking multiple AP and honors classes this semester. She has not been a big fan of her classes and feels the pressure mounting at this time of year. “I’m just gonna try to push through these next 3 weeks, cause this has been a terrible year. I need to lock in and get good grades, but I don’t know what I’m going to do without all the extra rest days we used to have.”
Although this time of year is exhausting, students are motivated by the knowledge that Winter break is right around the corner. Green Level is a stand-out school and multiple students take incredibly difficult courses. Most classes have picked up speed, school work is never-ending, and big tests are coming faster than ever at this time of year. As said by a study done by Harvard Medical School, 62% of students are reported to be very or somewhat stressed during this time of year. Although this statistic may apply to Green Level students, they know how to push through the endless school work and stay resilient.
Junior, Cate Murphy has a lot going on this time of year, both in school and outside of school. However, she manages to stay positive about a few aspects that happen before Winter break. “I’m excited like Christmas break and the fact that it’s colder outside. However, I’m going to need a lot of energy drinks this time of year because I have a lot of things to do.” Additionally, resources are also being provided by Green Level counselors and teachers to limit students’ stress levels. They are encouraging students to prioritize time management and self-care. By recognizing that this time of year is very busy, resources like peer tutoring and study sessions are being provided to students. This allows students to know they have a support system and overall reduces their stress levels.
Other students just have pure excitement for Christmas. So much so, that these next 3 weeks don’t even phase them. They are ready for Christmas traditions and are already in the “Christmas spirit.”
Sophomore, Kaylene Bustos is counting down the days left before Winter break. “I’m so excited for Christmas time. I want to drink some hot chocolate while waiting for it to snow.”
Although the 3 weeks leading up to Christmas are going to be tough for students, there is lots of excitement surrounding Winter break. Through the long study sessions, sleepless nights, and exhausting school days, Green Level students remain motivated. They aim to work hard these next three weeks and end the semester on a good note before finals and Winter break.
