Students and staff share highlights of summer as new school year begins

With school about to start, we asked area students, teachers and school staff who were privileged to have some time off over the summer, "What was the best part of your summer?" We received many responses to the question.

KK, who will be entering seventh grade enjoyed traveling to two tournaments with her softball team.

Benji, a fourth grader, said the highlight of his summer was "going to Silver Dollar City with my friends."

Sixth grade student Levi enjoyed "Swimming at the RecPlex."

Anna's favorite part of summer was "getting to go to church camp" for the first time. Anna will be in the fourth grade.

Lexie, who will enter sixth grade, also noted the highlight of her summer was "church camp and playing basketball."

First grader Lucas said "Going to see my Nana and PawPaw and fishing" was the best part of his summer break.

Jilli, who enters high school this fall responded, "Shopping, tanning and being with my friends."

High schooler Gracelin enjoyed spending time with her new pup, Teddy Bear, as well as attending several concerts including Luke Bryan, Morgan Wallen and Chris Stapleton, going to Silver Dollar City, swimming and having some relaxing movie nights.

Twins Kailin and Karsen, who will enter seventh grade, said the highlight of the summer was simply "not going to school."

Teachers, paraprofessionals and other school staff also found time for fun and relaxation over the summer months.

Lisa G., who is employed throughout the school year, had a busy summer, noting the highlights included, "The powerlifting competition in Springfield where I did 1,005 pounds in total in my squat, bench and deadlift. We also did a two-week trike ride to Colorado and Utah."

School employee Tracie noted, "getting to spend time with family and getting to rest."

Said Lisa C., a longtime local teacher, "Spending almost every day with the grand baby."

Forsyth teacher Mickey, a new mother, said, "I've been so fortunate to have the entire summer with my sweet boy!"

Lorna, employed by the Reeds Spring School District, enjoyed "Getting to choose what books I read and why. I also got to spend time organizing my house, which I absolutely loved, and I got some family time with my kiddos at Disney, which was the highlight of my summer."

Chris, a kindergarten teacher shared, "I taught summer school and did the teacher externship, so I did not have a lot of time off. When I did, I spent it floating in the pool reading, so relaxing."

Letha, speaking for mothers everywhere, said her favorite part of summer was "Not having to be up at 6 a.m.!"

The first day of school for the 2024-2025 school year is Wednesday, August 21, for Branson Public Schools. Hollister Public Schools begin glasses on Monday, August 19. The new school year for both Reeds Spring and Forsyth begins on Tuesday, August 20.

The staff of the Branson Globe wishes each student, teacher and faculty member a fabulous and safe school year, and reminds everyone to be aware of—and watch out for—children near schools, parking lots, bus stops, sidewalks and streets. Pay extra attention in school zones, and always stop for school buses.