With just days left until the school year wraps up, the halls are buzzing not just with final exams and Regents, but with the talk of what comes next. Students and staff alike are looking ahead, already making plans to enjoy every moment of summer, whether it’s through travel, rest, work or personal goals.
The sun hasn’t officially set on the school year, but the planning? That is already well under way.
Sophomore Deborah Kabore is kicking off her summer at a sleepaway camp in upstate New York. “There are multiple activities like swimming, cooking, archery, biking and kayaking,” she said. She hopes to use this summer to socialize more to improve her social skills and is very excited about working and earning money.
Junior Annkiara Bourdeau is planning a productive and active summer. “I’m very excited since I’m planning to go to the gym and join a wrestling camp called Beat the Streets,” she said. She has set several goals for herself, including weight loss, getting more sleep and earning college credits.
After working year-round since 2006, staff member Blanca Hernandez is preparing for her first summer off in nearly two decades. “I’m going to Puerto Rico in July and on a cruise in August,” she said. For Ms. Hernandez, the most meaningful part of the break is reconnecting with loved ones. “I get to visit family that lives far away,” she said.
Freshman Raphael Guzman is focused on his passion. “This summer I want to work on my basketball skills and my craft,” he says. His goal is to join the Lehman varsity basketball team. For him, summer is also about relaxing with friends and taking a break from the usual school routine.
Senior Bryanna Seignious is preparing for her future. “I’m excited for summer, and I plan to work for college as much as I can,” she said. Her mindset is all about growth: “Definitely get better and prepare myself for college and work harder.”
The principal, Gregory Fucheck, has already planned his summer vacation. Although he stays in the building during summer school, he’s made plans before summer school. “Before summer school starts on July seventh, I’m going on a five-day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains with my wife. On August fifth, I’m going to Germany and Austria for a family vacation,” he said. This summer, he wants to become the best version of himself, prioritizing health. “I want to do more exercises and eat healthy since I don’t have enough time because of school,” he says.
Sophomore Nicole Disla has a fun trip planned; she’s going to the Dominican Republic. But she’s not taking the whole summer off. “I want to prepare myself for the STEAM programs and College Now classes,” she says.
Her friend, Sumeja Halili, also a sophomore, agrees that summer is also about enjoying life. “The weather and enjoying time with my family and the way it has nothing to do with school,” she adds.
Freshman Malak El Amri says she might be working with kids. She’s neutral about it but hopes to spend time making money, studying, and going to the gym. “I like the weather warm and hot,” she adds with a smile.
Starr Giscombe, the assistant principal, is going to Jamaica and planning for another trip. “I like summer weather because it feels amazing when it’s sunny outside and the warmth feels fresh,” she said. This summer, she aims to complete her Ed.D. doctoral degree and spend time with her family.
Junior Yoelvis Alcequiez is both excited and busy. “I have a trip to Jamaica this summer,” he says. But he’s also balancing summer school, gym sessions and work. “I want to work on my mental and physical health and a healthier diet,” he said.
Senior Saja Ibrahim Yabai is ready to celebrate. “I’m excited because I’m finally graduating and going on a vacation for two months,” she says. For her, summer is about slowing down. “Having time for myself and having free time,” she said. She wants to enjoy her time and focus on what she needs to do that she hasn’t done before.
Freshman Kayden Perez is ready to be done with school. “I can’t wait for no school and the great weather because it’s better than winter,” he said. This year for break, he is going to visit the Dominican Republic. “I’m ready for the weather, the food, and to see my family.” He said. Some personal goals Kayden has is going to the gym to get stronger.
