Summer vacation is often regarded as a much anticipated time for all students. The idea of freedom from the shackles of school and the hours of homework and studying that comes with it is a utopia to students.

So why is this freedom stunted by summer reading assignments? While it’s understandable that students in AP courses may need to begin some of the curriculum early to be adequately prepared for AP exams, most regular classes include copious quantities of homework. This typically includes reading novels, watching videos, completing equations and, of course, the reflection questions.

At NDB, I have had summer homework in nearly every subject. While the summer workload is significantly less than during the school year, why call it summer break when it’s hardly a break at all? Students are plagued with the challenge of strategically managing their time when it comes to summer assignments. Some opt to do it all in the beginning; others space it out throughout the break. But, due to packed schedules or sometimes a lack of productivity, the most popular decision seems to be to wait until the end: stress all of break and, during those last sweet days, stay inside and work on homework instead of spending time with friends or family. I have tried both options and neither allows me to fully relax and enjoy my summer free of stress and anxiety.

So why have summer homework at all? Students would be happier and come into the new school year better rested and fulfilled, rather than already annoyed at their teachers for a particularly time-consuming or tedious assignment. This work allow more productivity and a healthier work environment from day one — And, who doesn’t want that?