BY BRIANNA HARRISON

For students, the last week of the semester is beyond stressful as they try to study hard for their finals. After three days of taking finals back to back, students are obligated to return to school on Thursday. Although it is fortunate enough that it is a minimum day and they gave us Friday, Dec. 18 off, there is still no point on coming to school that day

Here is what usually happens on Thursday; teachers will have the opportunity to assign work over break, the class will have a small party, or the students will simply not do anything for the whole day. A break is called a break for a reason. Homework should not be given out because this is the time where students could actually enjoy themselves and enjoy being with their families since much time is spent on school work. Besides, since the first semester will be over, there is nothing a student can do to raise their grade.

“I think having school on Thursday is pointless and there’s no need for it. I would rather spend the day with my family and friends,” senior Alex Saucedo said.

However, the only benefit of having school on Thursday is that some students could have a good time with their classmates as they have a small party or exchange gifts since they participated in Secret Santa. However, there will always be those teachers who are reluctant and would never have a party for their students. Thursday can also be a day where teachers show students their grades.

“It’s cool having a Christmas party, but I’d rather be at home,” senior Raul Campos said.

In addition, the West Covina Unified District requires that students attend school for a total amount of 184 days while other schools only require 180 days. Would having an extra day off from school hurt anyone? No. Besides, many students will either be absent because they will leave town to go on vacation early or simply ditch. The school will lose a significant amount of money because of all the absences.

“Having school on Thursday doesn’t matter to me because I’m not going,” junior Noah Mercer said.

Giving us Thursday off would also be beneficial for teachers. Instead of having to rush to put in grades on that Friday, they could have more time and would allow them not to make any mistakes while inserting grades into the grade book. I know I don’t have control over giving students days off from school, but I am hoping that this issue will be fixed next year.