By Sophia Do
As spring approaches, high school students prepare for one of the most stressful times of the academic year, the SATs and AP exams. The pressure to perform well on these critical tests is overwhelming, leaving many students burned out. Spring break, a much-needed opportunity for rest, typically lasts only one week, which is far too short to provide real relief.
Extending the break to two weeks would allow students time to recharge, study and return to school with a clear mind. This change would benefit not only students’ well-being but also their academic success.
One of the main reasons to extend spring break is the need for proper rest. By March, students have endured months of rigorous coursework, extracurricular commitments and test preparation. At Fountain Valley High School, students have not had a seasonal break since December and have been fighting to stay focused for three months straight.
A single week off is not enough to recover from the stress of the SAT and AP exams. A two-week break would give students time to relax before returning to the demands of school, helping to prevent burnout and relieve stress from college admissions decisions. AP courses cover an extensive amount of material, requiring months of review, and most students take more than one. SAT preparation adds another layer of stress, as students have to balance schoolwork and test prep.
A longer break would provide time for efficient studying without sacrificing much-needed rest, which might positively impact exam scores.
However, some may argue that extending the spring break by one week would push the school year one week longer, shortening the summer break. This could interfere with family plans, travel or summer jobs. Additionally, our school year starts late compared to other districts, which could contribute to the perception that we need a longer break to catch up.
Despite these concerns, the benefits of allowing students more time for recovery and focused preparation for critical exams outweigh the drawbacks of a slightly extended school year.
Mental health is another crucial factor. The intense academic demands of high school, combined with standardized testing pressure, contribute to rising stress and anxiety levels among teenagers. Schools must prioritize student well-being alongside academic achievement. A longer break would give students time to decompress, ultimately improving their focus and motivation upon returning to school.
A two-week spring break is not just a luxury, it is a necessity. Students need time to rest, study and recover from the pressures of their workload. Extending the break would support both academic performance and mental health, ensuring students are set up for success.
Alongside academic achievement, a longer break would give students time to decompress and, in the long run, improve their focus and motivation upon returning to school.
