Mrs. Skinner attempts to teach while a student slumbers.

“April showers bring May flowers” is the common phrase for the rainy, grey springtime to promise a brighter outcome. But what about those cold, dark months after winter break with no end in sight?

Students lose motivation to do schoolwork, and energy in these dull months before the end of the year. This not only affects the student’s performance but also how the teachers approach the classroom. English teacher Mrs. Skinner has witnessed this personally.

“I think that spring break came a little late this year, so I feel like that caused some students to really be ready for a break, and need a vacation. So the past couple weeks, in particular, I think students have been less and less motivated,” Skinner said.

Longer periods of no break cause students to face burnout with their academics and extracurricular activities. From January to April and then the final stretch from spring break to May are lengthy periods without break that make students unmotivated in class.Skinner adapts to the student’s attitude.

“Only in that, I try to do more interesting activities or to involve more partner or group work, so students get a chance to talk to each other, so it’s easier for them to engage in class, versus them just sitting and listening,” Skinner said.

Coupled with testing season and the end of year slump, teachers are aware kids need an adaptable environment. As Skinner had mentioned, teachers make a blatant effort to aid kids in this difficult slump season. Allowing kids to collaborate with others and take occasional breaks make the classroom a more welcoming place to slow down in their fast paced lives.

Imagine standing in front of a classroom, trying to teach a topic and all of the kids are unable to focus or even stay awake. This is what the teachers are facing, so lifting the student’s spirits helps not only the kids but also the teachers to build a more encouraging environment in class.

It may feel bleak and like there is no end in sight, especially when the assignments are not ceasing, but teachers are also actively trying to make it feel slightly more feasible. The second semester slumps are not fun for anyone; however, we’re all working together to power through until summer.