By Helen Wilson
A&E Editor
As a new student at Career Center this year, I can confidently say that this school has a unique structure and culture that sets it apart. The schedule vastly differs from traditional high schools, featuring eight forty-five-minute periods a day. One of the most appreciated aspects of this schedule is the highly valued break that takes place after the first period.
During this break, students have several options to make the most of their time. Some gather in the grand entryway to socialize with friends while others take advantage of the “office hours” to meet with teachers for additional help. For those who enjoy a lively break, Mr. Fisher hosts engaging games every Friday, adding an exciting element to the break. The best part of these games is the prizes—ranging from candy and gift cards to the most wanted reward of all: a Silver Lot Pass, the lot that sits directly in front of the building.
As someone who has a free second period at Career Center, I have a particularly strong appreciation for this break. My free period lasts from 9:10 AM to 10:00 AM, but thanks to the break, I get an extra 20 minutes to do whatever my day calls for. Whether a friend surprises me with coffee or we gather for a post-weekend debrief, the break provides a valuable opportunity to connect. Without fail, the rolling chairs in the grand entryway are arranged in a circle as we catch up and laugh for twenty minutes before diving into the rest of the day.
Beyond the social benefits, this break plays a crucial role in supporting students’ mental health. Career Center is unique because it brings together students from nearly all Winston-Salem/Forsyth County High Schools, offering them the chance to take higher-level classes. With such a diverse student body, the break provides an ideal setting for meeting new people. Additionally, the extra time for tutoring can make a significant difference for students who may be struggling with their classes. Whether it’s alleviating stress before a challenging class, reviewing material before a test, or simply getting clarification on last night’s homework, the break allows students to master their work that may not always get done in the short classes.
Although I may be biased, it is undeniable that implementing even a short twenty-minute break in high school schedules could have a profoundly positive impact. The break at Career Center has become an essential part of my school experience, providing a much-needed balance between academic demands and personal well-being. I cannot imagine my school day without it, and I believe that if more schools adopted a similar approach, students everywhere would feel the benefits.