Thanksgiving has a different meaning for everyone, but for high school students, it’s often about getting a break from school. Between school, sports, and social life, teenagers rarely get a break. So, Thanksgiving becomes a time to pause, relax, and take some time to not have to worry about school, and to take a break from everything.

Student life can be very stressful so during Thanksgiving break, the students finally get a chance to breathe and take a break from the stress of school. Thanksgiving is also a way for students to show what they are thankful for. Students take the days off as a chance to spend time with family. “Thanksgiving is special to me because I get to see all of my family and we get to catch up and have fun!” senior Taryn Ford said.

Family time may include watching the Macy’s Day Parade, gathering around the table, laughing, eating food, helping cut the turkey, or even watching football while the smell of food fills the house. It’s also a reminder to be grateful for the support from family, friends, teachers, and teammates who have helped them through the ups and downs of life. Even when life is rough, there is always something to be thankful for and Thanksgiving is a way for people to express that.

“Thanksgiving is exactly what it sounds like, giving thanks for what God has given us. For family and many others alike, the way we give thanks is by spending the day with family and friends,” senior Cameron Gossett said. 

Beyond the food, traditions, and giving thanks, Thanksgiving is also a way for people to give back. Some students will take Thanksgiving break to give back by volunteering at local shelters or participating in food drives. Thanksgiving, for some high school students, is about reconnecting with family, appreciating friendships, and remembering that there is always something to be thankful for.

It’s a break from the rush of school, a reminder to appreciate the people who support them, and a chance to make memories that they will remember way after high school is over. Thanksgiving for most high schoolers is the same, being together with family, slowing down, realizing that there is always something to be thankful for even if it does not feel like it.

The students will still remember these moments and memories that they make with their friends and family way after high school. “It’s a day that we set aside to give thanks for everything we have in this life,” senior Braidyn Hale said.