The recent snow days that occured for schools across Loudoun County have proved to be stressful for some, whereas enjoyable for others. Despite being a source of contention for some, especially teachers and students who struggle to complete assignments by the end of the quarter, many also viewed the snow days as a stress-free break.

Senior Grace Harvey conveys that although the snow days came with a fair share of stress, they were definitely a well-timed break. “I had a lot of tests that were supposed to happen this week, so I’m definitely a bit nervous about having to scramble to catch up with everything next week. Since I’ve been so worried about the end of the second quarter, having a surprise break really helped ease that stress.”

In terms of transportation, Harvey explains that driving to school was a struggle. “It was a bit scary driving on Thursday [January 18]. Where I live, I have to take back roads to school, and they were very icy.”

For business and marketing teacher, Mr. Patrick Carper, the snow days inflict surprise more than anything. “It has been nice to have snow days, since we have not had many for the last couple of years. The timing could have been better because the snow days are creating stress for many teachers.”

According to history teacher Ms. Heidi McPhillips, the sudden school cancellations was not as much of a burden with advanced planning. “I’ve been telling kids to make sure things are in since the beginning of the quarter, so the snow days have not affected my grading too much since I planned ahead.”

She continues to explain how snow days are a much needed break for students and teachers alike. “I love snow days, they’re the best. Life is so busy. Everyone could use and appreciate the day where they can just relax or get things done that have been piling up.”