School’s out for the summer.
Remember that time-honored rhyme of childhood — “No more homework! No more books! No more teachers’s dirty looks!” The regimented schedule of lessons, homework, report cards, parent-teacher interviews, track meets, band rehearsals, and all that the school year represents is over for a brief few weeks before a new school year begins in August.
But, for now it is vacation time. Our students have made us proud this year. They have excelled in many areas. Most recently, the EHS Choral Club made us proud by singing Sunday at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and at the beginning of the National Memorial Day Parade Monday in Washington D.C. What an honor for these students and their instructor, Mrs. Debbie Gouge.
Some of these students will move on to college, others to the military and jobs, and others will move on to the next grade. But for now, the endless expanse of summer vacation awaits. It means summer vacation at the beach, trips to the pool and lake, and do-nothing trips to nowhere. Or maybe it just means hanging out with your best of best friends.
And then, faster than you can say vacation, the endless summer will be hurtling toward that bite in the air that signals football practice, band camp, back-to-school sales and the excitement that comes with a new grade, a new class, new classmates, a new teacher, and new things to learn.
Many Americans consider summertime as a carefree, happy time when “kids can be kids.” We take advantage of enriching experiences like summer camps, time with family, and trips to museums, parks, and libraries.
Unfortunately, some youths face anything but tranquil summer months. When the school doors close, many children struggle to access not only educational opportunities, but basic needs like healthy meals and adequate adult supervision. The truth is, most modern American parents work year round and scramble to find fun, safe, affordable programs during school vacations and holidays that schools take but employers do not.
We encourage local youth to take advantage of programs like those offered at the Carter County Boys and Girls Club, the Elizabethton-Carter County Public Library, or volunteer for some organization. We challenge teens to take a weekly trip to the library and read a new book each week, or volunteer at a nursing home, do yard word for an elderly neighbor, etc.
It’s always good to remember that summer vacation brings numerous activities, possibilities, and temptations.
It also means that our young people will be out and about at almost any time of the day or night, so it is incumbent on all who drive to be extra attentive. Please, slow down and look out for the unexpected. That’s good advice at all times, but particularly in June, July and August.
Let’s all do our part to see they have a happy and safe time off from school and return ready to learn in August.