As summer rolls in, my enthusiasm reaches new heights—possibly even more than my kids’! I can hardly wait for that final week, the last day, and the moment when the school year wraps up. Honestly, the only silver lining to school for me is knowing that someone else is teaching my child instead of me. Whether it’s homeschooling or public education, once that Easter break hits, I’m ready to call it a day. Unfortunately, public school comes with its own set of annoying rules about attendance and “days of schooling” that just won’t let me be.
There’s a long list of things I can’t stand about school. The incessant parties—seriously, how many can a fifth-grade class possibly have in one year? Then there are the field trips, coupled with the endless requests of “Mom, can you drive? Mom, please!” I hope her persistence pays off in the future because it’s starting to wear me down!
Homework is another nightmare. The ridiculous projects teachers expect us (ahem, our kids) to complete can be overwhelming. State reports? No thanks! And reading after homework? You expect these kids to do that too? What’s next, brushing their teeth?
Fundraising is another pet peeve. It’s not really about the kids raising money; it’s about parents like me buying all the stuff anyway. We might as well just hand over a check in August and skip the magazines, gift wrap, and candy that we really don’t want. And let’s not even get started on the science fair—it’s a mother’s worst nightmare involving messy projects, glue, and potential viruses lurking on our computers! Is it too much to ask for a simple report on fungus instead of growing it?
Missing the bus leads to frantic, sometimes reckless, driving to avoid that dreaded “tardy” mark. Who knew a 10-year-old could be labeled “truant” for being late? In the grand scheme of things, can’t we focus on bigger issues like actual criminals? At least my kids manage to eventually make it to school—there should be an award for that!
Things only get trickier as they transition into junior and senior high. You’d think once they’re out of elementary school, anonymity would kick in. Nope! Now you’re dealing with hormonal teens who need to be coerced into doing homework, constantly checking the school grade portal, and juggling sports schedules. It’s a whirlwind of practices, games, dances, and clubs, leaving little time for anything else. Meanwhile, the lawn goes unmowed, the trash piles up, and that mysterious odor from the fridge? Well, that’s just life!
But then, there’s the glorious beacon of hope: summer break! No more homework, tests, or field trips. The days stretch out with endless free time. I can shop at Target without a 3 p.m. bus to catch! The kids can go to camp, spend time with grandparents, or just hang out with friends. The beauty of summer includes sleeping in until 7:30 a.m. without worrying about missing the bus, taking leisurely showers instead of quick military-style ones, and wearing actual clothes instead of just yoga pants and a hat. And let’s not forget the sheer delight of sipping coffee from a real cup instead of a travel mug—pure bliss!
By mid-August, as school approaches again, I’ll be weary, grumpy, and longing for the carefree days of June. I won’t exit gracefully; expect to see me throwing a tantrum on the sidewalk outside the school. Don’t judge—I know you feel like having a meltdown too!
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In summary, while school can be a source of stress and frustration, the joys of summer provide a much-needed respite, full of freedom and relaxation. Embrace the season and all the delightful chaos it brings!