By Ali G.

For most people, the term “summer school” seems to connote a place where delinquent adolescents who’ve failed their classes sit slunk in the back row of seats with hats over their eyes, impatiently waiting for the bell to ring. At the Family School, things run a little bit differently. I remember last year, when I arrived at the school right at the beginning of the summer and I was told I’d be attending classes for next three months, my jaw hit nearly the floor. But as it turned out, the summer schedule at the Family School is actually a blessing in disguise. Most kids eventually see the benefit in being able to get a full-year credit in six weeks, in a very fast-paced specialized class. After class in the mornings, the afternoons are spent in a variety of activities. This year, the offerings have been expanded, and now include cross-country, fly-fishing, cosmetology, drama, volleyball, photography and philosophy, among many others.

Most kids who come to the school are used to spending their summers lazing around in the sun all day and staying out all night.  However, students are able to see the upside of continuing with their education over the summer. Senior Anna F. says, “I like the summer schedule because I can keep up with my studies and I still have plenty of time to relax in the afternoons.” Sophomore Sydney S. says “My favorite thing about the summer schedule is being able to do a wide variety of things, like cooking, soccer and tennis.” Though some kids might adamantly say that they’d rather be spending their summer laying on the couch watching cartoons and eating, I much prefer spending my time being productive and still having some time to kick back and relax.