Every December, Bronx River students with excellent attendance have looked forward to a holiday trip to Six Flags in New Jersey. But not this year. Instead of Six Flags, students with good attendance will head to Nickelodeon Universe amusement park at the American Dream complex in East Rutherford, N.J., on Jan. 23.

“Usually in December, we do a trip for Six Flags and they do a thing called ‘Holidays In the Park,”  Tené Kelly, the assistant principal, said. “This year they didn’t, so we had to find an alternative and we went with the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park.”

In the past, student attendance for the trip was measured from the start of the school year. This year, the rules have changed, making it easier for students who missed school earlier in the year to attend.

“This trip is different because it is your attendance from November 19 to January 12, and you cannot be absent for more than twice to make the list,” Ms. Kelly said.  “We don’t have any new destination in mind, but we will survey students if they like the trip more than Six Flags and we will do more trips next year,” she said.

Staff will be taking steps to ensure the safety of  students by having chaperones check in on them. These chaperones will be located at the exits and entrances of the mall to prevent students from getting lost. As the trip approaches, staff and students eager to go, will share information and tips about the trip.

Anthony Bruno, a sophomore, said, “I didn’t go to last year’s Six Flags but I think the Nickelodeon trip will be fun.”

He suggests for you to be prepared and make the most of the situation. “I’ll try to go on every ride with my friends,” he said.

Analyz Ogando, an 11th grade student, agrees. “I recommend you to leave your comfort zone and try every ride there,” she said, adding that Bronx River should do more trips.

Dylan Clementi, a junior, is happy that attendance for the trip was reset. “Now more of my friends can attend the trip with me,” he said. “I am excited for Bronx River to do more trips.”