Highlands High School students eagerly anticipate their spring break from March 28 through April 7, offering a well-deserved break before diving into the final stretch of the school year. After many early mornings, tests, and homework, these students are counting down the days until they can unwind and reset.
During this spring break, many students are heading out of town to relax, explore new destinations, and spend time with family and friends. Whether traveling or staying local, the break offers a chance for everyone to recharge before returning to school.
“This is a good break from school because it gets your mind off of schoolwork and allows time to make memories with my friends right before the end of senior year,” Adelaide Foley (12) said.
Once students return to school after winter break, the countdown to spring break is officially on. Each year, the school calendar—including spring break—is determined by the district’s calendar committee, which meets to finalize important dates. While spring break tends to fall around the same time annually, several factors influence its scheduling, including state regulations, testing, and holidays.
“We have a calendar committee made up of teachers, administrators, parents, and school board members, and Ms. Flaherty, our assistant superintendent for student services, oversees it,” Fort Thomas Schools Superintendent Brian Robinson said.
With a range of destinations in mind, many Highlands Bluebirds—both students and teachers—will be traveling across the United States and even venturing out of the country during spring break. As part of a cherished annual tradition, many seniors at Highlands come together to plan one final getaway, creating lasting memories before they head off to college and begin the next chapter of their lives.
“This year, one of the major spots for the senior spring break trip is Cancun and Anna Maria Island. I’m going to Cancun,”Sophia Agin (12) said. “I’m most excited for tanning and being with my friends on spring break.”
About 46% of Highlands students will be heading to various parts of Florida this spring break, with Anna Maria Island and Indian Shores being the most popular destinations. While these spots draw the largest crowds, students will be scattered across the state, each enjoying the sunshine, local shops, and a wide array of exciting activities.
“One of the senior trips is to Anna Maria Island in Florida, and I’m most excited about the warm weather and spending time with all my friends,” senior Foley (12) said. The destination was chosen for its stunning beaches, along with its quiet, more private atmosphere that everyone could agree on.
While some students will enjoy a nice vacation, our athletic teams, such as the Highlands Varsity Baseball and Softball teams, will attend various tournaments in Tennessee and Myrtle Beach. Although it’s upsetting to miss a week of vacation, their dedication and grit showcase their commitment to success and their love of the game.
“Sometimes, it’s hard knowing all your friends are on spring break while you’re sticking around playing games, but overall, we’re just preparing ourselves for regionals and the games that truly matter,” Varsity Highlands Baseball player Adam Forton (12) said.
Not only does spring break offer teachers a much-needed break from their students, but it also gives them valuable time to focus on their own well-being. With the pressure of grades and final coursework, this time allows teachers to recharge mentally and emotionally, providing them with the space to reflect and rest before the final stretch of the school year.
“I don’t do any grading during spring break,”Spanish teacher Emily Haffey said. “For AP teachers especially, it’s a valuable time to reset and get back into the zone of what we need to accomplish before the end of the year.”
As the school year comes to an end, many Bluebirds are preparing for final exams and important AP tests. This week-long break offers them a chance to take a break from the stress and relax before they begin preparing for these major exams. It gives them time to clear their minds and return to studying, feeling refreshed and ready.
“My schoolwork has been overwhelming lately, especially with all the big tests approaching,” Gracie Leftin (10) said. “This break is such a relief and the perfect opportunity to reset after a long, stressful winter.”
Overall, this time allows everyone to relax, whether that’s on the beach, hiking up a mountain, or simply in the comfort of their own home.
“I’m looking forward to this spring break more than any other, as it gives me a chance to explore somewhere I haven’t been before while being with my friends and family,” Macy Hargis (11) said. “I’m excited about beach days, shopping, and enjoying the time off from school.”
