Students can feel the excitement of Thanksgiving approaching. It is that time when the stress of school mixes with anticipation of the biggest family gathering of the year… It means big meals, and a very much needed break. With the start of the second term, the arrival of three week grades, and the energy of the all-school musical assembly, the season brings a lot of reflection on how we’ve spent the first 11 weeks of our school year.
Now that the second term is in full send, students are settling into new classes and routines. The release of three week grades before Thanksgiving gives everyone a chance to pause and reflect on how much more they have developed since September 1st. Some students feel proud of their efforts and accomplishments so far, while others see it as an opportunity to recollect and set shiny, new goals. Teachers also use this time to keep kids motivated by pushing them to stay focused and finish strong so they can go into the break feeling confident about their final grades for 3 weeks. With the holidays coming up, students can find balance between advancing academically and taking their time to be thankful for their growth, inside and outside of school.
One of the highlights of November at Brookfield Central is the excitement that fills the gym during school assemblies. This big assembly brings students and staff together to celebrate what it means to be a Lancer. Whether it is recognizing fall sports teams; reaching academic goals; or preparing for the main winter sport, Lancer Basketball; assemblies are a chance to take a break from routine and celebrate each other’s successes. The cheering, the over-crowded bleachers, and the shared school spirit reminds everyone that being a Lancer is more than just going to class, it is about being part of a school “family” that supports every individual.
The week leading up to Thanksgiving also brings a sort of euphoric energy to classrooms, a product of the long upcoming break and the memories that will be made, like the small moments inside of long nights with friends or the big dinner everyone is waiting for. Teachers often take a few minutes to talk about gratitude or ask students to share what they could be thankful for. Some classes even take part in activities like writing gratitude letters or making cards for friends and family. These small moments of reflection help everyone slow down and appreciate the simple things, like classmates who make them laugh or teachers who always take time to lend a helping hand. It is a reminder that gratitude is not only for Thanksgiving day, but something to apply to everyday life at school and at home.
When the break arrives, students can enjoy time with loved ones and take a rest from their overly busy schedules. Some travel to visit relatives. Others stay home to cook, bake, or watch the big Thanksgiving football game: The Kansas City Chiefs versus The Dallas Cowboys. Many Lancers also take time to give back, such as volunteering at food drives, donating to local charities, or helping at community events.
When students return from Thanksgiving break, it is like everyone in the halls was reset. Everyone seems a little more refreshed, and maybe even a little more connected. As the second term continues, students look ahead to the final weeks of the semester that conclude the first half of their year. Despite this, the lessons about being thankful and being part of a community will stick with all of us.
At Brookfield Central, Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday. It is a reminder of who the Lancers are, and to be thankful not only for family and friends but also for teachers, teammates, and classmates who make school worth attending every day. Between balancing grades, celebrating at the yearly musical assembly, and finding happiness in small moments, BC students show what it means to live with gratitude and to take pride in what they work hard on. As the year moves forward, one thing remains certain: the Lancer spirit always finds a reason to give thanks, even when it is not Thanksgiving!
