The countdown to spring break has begun, and the conversations in the hallways have changed from quizzes and due dates to plane tickets and packing lists. For many students, the week off offers a pause in the academic calendar and an opportunity to travel, explore or recharge before the end of the school year.
Some students will be staying local, while others will be traveling across the country for very different kinds of experiences. From snowy mountains to sandy beaches to college campuses, this year’s spring break plans offer a wide range of interests and priorities.
Junior James Cuervo is trading the warmth of Florida for colder temperatures in Colorado. His family plans to spend the week skiing in the Rocky Mountains. “We’re going to Breckinridge,” Cuervo said. Cuervo said that his trip was not just about vacation but also about improving his skills. He started skiing several years ago and now feels more confident tackling the slopes. “I’m hoping to try at least one black diamond run,” he said. “It’s kind of nerve-wracking, but that’s what makes it fun.”
Other students are heading toward more traditional spring break destinations. Junior Sophie Valenzuela plans to spend the week on the Gulf Coast with her extended family. Their plan includes beach days, boating and family dinners. “We’re going to the Keys, and honestly, I just want to relax,” Valenzuela said. The annual trip has become a family tradition. “It’s not anything crazy,” she added. “But being with my family and watching the sunset every night is something we look forward to all year,” Valenzuela notes that her grandparents live in the Keys, so it’s nice to be able go on vacation without having to worry about checking into hotels or Airbnb’s.
For some upperclassmen, however, spring break is less about relaxation and more about planning for the future. Junior Stella Medina will spend her week visiting some of her top college options as she begins narrowing down her college list. “I’m touring LSU first because I’ve always wanted to go there,” Medina said. “It feels more real when you’re actually walking around and seeing where you might live,” Medina explained. She hopes the visits will help her decide which type of environment fits her best, from campus size to academic programs. Similarly, some other students are utilizing touring schools in states such as Alabama and Tennessee.
Not every student is traveling far. Some plan to work extra shifts, catch up on sleep or spend time with friends. Guidance counselors note that breaks can serve different purposes depending on individual needs, whether that means rest, productivity or vacation.