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Returning to school and getting back to a structured routine after some time off can be one of the biggest challenges our students face year in and year out. I have found that the Thanksgiving break can sometimes be the most challenging of all to return from because in just a few short weeks we will again see our classrooms closed for Winter Break.

With sights set on the holidays and the upcoming new year, students can experience distractions while at school, lack of focus, or a general disinterest as they gaze out the window and daydream about hitting the mountain, playing in the snow, or just enjoying the decorations and festivities found throughout our valley. 

Luckily, I work with a team of amazing teachers, administrators, and support staff who know the drill. They help our students stay focused on their assigned tasks and keep classroom discussions on topic.

I think it is important that we recognize them as a community. So if you know a teacher or a bus driver, or anyone else who helps Eagle County School District “go,” be sure to recognize them this holiday season. Working in the public education sector is not one anyone enters for the riches, but rather for the passion of supporting students and for the betterment of our community.

And parents, you play an important role in students beating the December slump as well. Help your children remember that we aren’t quite to the end of the semester just yet. Encourage them to get enough rest, eat well, and show up ready to learn and work hard. For high school students, this is an extremely important time to stay focused and finish the semester on an academic high note. Final exams are quickly approaching and for some students, these assessments can play a large role in determining someone’s mastery of content. 

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Another thing worth noting is that the holiday season is different for everyone. This time of year is often viewed as a time for connecting with loved ones, but it can also be isolating and tough for others for a variety of reasons.

Be kind to your neighbors, lend an ear to a friend who may be struggling, and remember all of the amazing organizations available to our community that are here to support you, your children, and your visitors. Organizations like SpeakUp ReachOut and Your Hope Center stand at the ready to provide the necessary counseling sessions to help anyone through a difficult time.

Don’t let fear of cost or insurance coverage be a barrier, as Eagle Valley Behavioral Health has established Olivia’s Fund to provide up to six free therapy sessions per year for youth who demonstrate a basic financial need. This means in-person or virtual counseling with a therapist is available at no cost to those struggling in our community. It’s OK to not be OK, and there are many willing to lend a helping hand. All you have to do is be brave enough to ask. 

So be sure to enjoy the next few weeks of December chaos, have fun participating in the various festivities at work or traditions you practice at home, or just keep on keeping on. But from me to you, I would like to offer you a heartfelt Happy Holidays!

Philip Qualman is the superintendent of Eagle County School District. Email him at philip.qualman@eagleschools.net.