By: Calle Caldwell

Fall break offers a much-needed pause between the chaos of the nearing end of first semester and the incoming stress of midterms. It’s a time for students and teachers alike to unwind, reconnect with family, and recharge before finishing out the year and entering second semester.

One of the best ways to enjoy your break without stress is to front-load your responsibilities. BHS senior Piper Raslich uses this approach. “I get my schoolwork done on the first Sunday and then sail through the rest of break,” she said.

Getting ahead on homework or college applications early in the week allows for genuine downtime to relax and spend time with family, which is important for everyone during the busy fall season.

It is also essential to recognize the importance of slowing down. Raslich admits that her mornings are often slow and lazy by choice. “I like to rot in the mornings and get more active at night,” she said. “That’s when I’m like, ‘Let’s go to the store,’ or ‘Let’s get 7Brew.’” That kind of unstructured time can be essential for recharging both mentally and physically.

BHS English teacher Julie Giles echoes this idea by encouraging her students to take advantage of the time off. “I don’t give homework so students can enjoy family time. Breaks are really important for resting and recharging,” she said.

A successful fall break means finding a balance between getting things done and giving yourself rest. The key lies in setting priorities and being intentional with your time.

Giles shares that she aims to keep herself productive by setting her priorities. “I make manageable lists to keep myself on track,” she said.

Giles also shares that she uses break to connect with her loved ones and emphasize gratitude during the Thanksgiving season. “I really try to prioritize family time,” she said.

For Raslich, maintaining that balance is about keeping a loose structure without overloading herself. She sets small productivity goals, like working out and keeping her room clean, but still leaves plenty of time to unwind. This approach allows her to feel accomplished without losing the relaxed pace that makes break enjoyable.