Spring Break is a universally adored holiday among both students and faculty. Just when the weight of tests and essays and all other assignments seems too much to bear, it’s the light on the horizon that provides the perfect time to unwind and let go of all the stress that has culminated over the course of second semester.
Thank the ancient Greeks and swimmers in the 1930s for this much-needed week of relaxation and fun. The practice of spring break dates back to ancient Greece – A festival known as “Anthesteria” and dedicated to the Greek god Dionysus occurred at the beginning of spring, and involved lively celebrations filled with dancing, singing, and competitions. However, the spring break we know originated in the 1930s when it became a tradition for northern college swimming teams to travel to warmer areas for early spring training, a travel plan that eventually spread to non-athlete students as well.
Athens Academy follows UGA’s schedule, so spring break is from March 2nd – March 11th.
From beaches to mountains to their own couch, spring break destinations among Athens Academy students vary.
Sophomore Sarah Woody is traveling to Saint Kitts island, an island in the West Indies. “I’m going with my friends and family, and I’m super excited because I’ve never been. I’m going to spend a lot of time at the beach and I can’t wait.”
Junior Veronika Babbitt is dedicating part of her break to her athletic career. “I’m spending the first half of my spring break in Washington D.C. to visit my sister, and then we are both heading to Boston to watch the Track and Field D1 indoor nationals. Then I have my own highschool track and field indoor nationals in Boston that I will be competing in.”
Other students like Junior Nina Kline may have no vacation plans, but there are still many activities in our community that they can use to fill their time. Nina says, “I’ll be staying home this spring break. I’m going to go to the pool at the YMCA and the public library or Barnes and Noble. I’ll also probably hike at the botanical gardens and just generally relax.”
For many students, spring break is their time to escape school before the whirlwind that is the end of the school year begins. Junior Connor Schoenfeld explains how the break will help him to relax. “The whole week off allows me to decompress and not think about responsibilities.”
Before long, the end of the semester will be in full swing, filled with AP exams for upperclassmen, spring sports play-offs, and eventually the seniors’ graduation and final farewell. But before all of that, students can leisurely enjoy this beloved week of no responsibilities and prepare for the tumultuous months to come.
