Two Weeks of Tinsel: RAHS Prepares for an Extended Winter Break

By, Anna Gerike

With the Thanksgiving leftovers a distant memory, a new countdown has officially begun at Reedsburg Area High School. While the daily classroom grind can sometimes feel like a slog this time of year when it’s cold out and gets dark so early, students and staff have a major milestone on the horizon: a full two-week Christmas break.

The consensus across the hallways is clear: the extra time, which commences Friday, Dec. 19 at 3:15 P.M., is a welcome gift. For many, the break represents more than just a pause in schoolwork; it’s a rare chance for family reconnection. Associate Principal Matt Bauer noted that the extended time off is particularly meaningful for those with busy households.

“This Christmas will be the first time since last Christmas that my entire family has been able to get together,” Bauer said. “I very much look forward to having all of my kids home again and spending as much time with family as possible.”

However, for the faculty, the two-week gap requires a bit of "holiday gymnastics" in the classroom. Teachers are working hard to ensure that learning doesn't hit a wall the moment the final bell rings.

“Anytime a teacher is planning around a long break, there’s a bit of a juggling act,” explained teacher Mrs. Bri VandeZande. “I always try to make sure whatever we’re doing in class lands in a natural stopping place before we head out—finishing a unit, wrapping up a project, or at least closing out a concept.”

VandeZande added that if a lesson does get cut short, she builds in a "catch-up day" upon return to refresh everyone’s memory. 

English teacher Mr. Michael Vander Zee shared a similar strategy regarding his English 10 curriculum.

“My students will be wrapping up a project and starting to read Night by Elie Wiesel,” Vander Zee said. “I don’t want them getting too far into the book [before break] because then they will forget everything that has happened.”

While teachers manage the calendars, students are busy dreaming of the downtime. For Adriana Werla ‘27, the holiday is a double celebration.

“My dad’s birthday is on Christmas, so I’m looking forward to that,” Werla said. She added that her plans are low-key, including a potential screening of the classic Christmas Vacation.

For others, the break is a much-needed reset from a demanding extracurricular schedule. Ruby Baker ‘27, who stays busy with FBLA, NHS, and Student Council, is ready for a change of pace.

“I will probably play in the snow with my sister and sleep in,” Baker said. “It’ll be nice to get a break from school.”

Whether it’s Mr. Vander Zee heading to New York City to catch a Broadway show or Mrs. VandeZande enjoying the quiet of home, the RAHS community seems ready to trade the ringing of the school bells for the ringing in of the New Year.