Students find time to relax in summer
By Sabrina Samedi Special to the Acorn

Summer is popular with teenagers because it's an opportunity for freedom and fun. Stresses and worries of the academic year disappear. During summer, young people find time to kick back and relax as the demands of school give way to leisure time activitiesSome kids enjoy being lazyMore than a few become couch potatoes in front of their TVs and computers. Others will find more creative ways to entertain themselves. Some have jobs.

"Summer is the time when you can build up your social life that was torn down during the school year," said Haeley Moore, a Westlake High School junior. "The best part of summer is just getting out of the house and chilling with my friends."

Other teens attend summer school, many to get ahead.

"Since I don't want to take seven classes next year, but be enrolled in two science courses, I have to take U.S. history during summer school," said WHS junior Taylor Medlock. By keeping busy, there's no boredom, he said.

Other students volunteer.

The mother of Bre Vergess owns Noah's Ark Animal Rescue Foundation. Bre, a WHS junior, helped find safe homes for stray and abused animals this summer. She also cleaned up kennels and cages, and walked, fed and groomed cats and dogs.

In addition to rebuilding her social life, Haeley is also helping others this summer. "I volunteer at a volleyball camp at Colina Middle School," Haeley said, "and assist Mr. Mike Waters in teaching kids the fundamentals of volleyball." Helping children become better players is personally fulfilling for her, she said.

Drawing a paycheck is also rewarding.

WHS senior Danielle Benson is working at Pavilions. "I like having a job because it allows me to make money so that I can eventually buy a car of my own," Danielle said. She also likes the independence and responsibilities that come with a job.

Summer is a popular time of year because it lets young people learn and explore new opportunities.

It's a time for students to escape the pressures of the regular school year and recharge their batteries.