I guess that’s it! Summer is over! Tomorrow we report back to school. We officially start preparing for the new school year. I remember, way back in the twentieth century, summer lasted a good three months. Out as Memorial Day weekend started, back in the Tuesday after Labor Day! The two holidays were summer’s bookends. By the end of the century, however, that summer break had been cut by at least thirty days. More in some cases.
There are all kinds of reasons for the dwindling summer. Data showing students would retain more if they had a shorter break. Parents weary of having kids home, needing to find an alternate “baby-sitter.” Facing economic hardship, families eliminated expenses by cutting back on summer camps and trips to amusement parks. No trips, no need to stay home, might as well be in school. But, I think there is another reason!
When I joined the profession, the oft repeated refrain were the three reasons for teaching, “June, July, and August.” The summer was a time to read, relax, refresh, and recreate. Time for teachers to rebuild relationships with family and loved ones and friends outside of school. (There is a life outside of school.) The three months were a built in sabbatical. In truth, summer had nothing to do with teacher’s mental health. More importantly, it was time to get the kids back on the farm.
However, agricultural technology changed everything. Companies like Deere, Case IH, and Caterpillar made improvements in farm equipment. More efficient machinery incorporating new technology. No need for school-aged kids to work the farms. No need to keep schools closed. Teachers, back to work! John Deere, I blame you for the short summer!
Regardless, the Chew’s short summer was packed full. We made time to “recharge the batteries.” Here are a few highlights from the past few weeks!
Time in Anaheim well spent!
Can’t wait to meet the new students. Fall break can’t be far behind, can it?