As the temperature rises and the last traces of winter fade away, students head outdoors in greater numbers during lunch and free blocks. The fields and courts, once quiet during colder months, now buzz with energy—soccer balls soar, Spikeball nets pop up, basketball games heat up, and small football games break out where every play feels like a last-second touchdown attempt.
After months of being stuck indoors, students are eager to make the most of the warm weather. Now, playing outside has become the default, with many seeking the fresh cool breeze waving through the air, the soft rumbling of cars from the road, and the blinding light illuminating every inch of the field. However, this begs a question: how much time do students spend outside, and do any classes go outside during the ideal weather conditions we have currently?
“Now that it’s warmer, going outside is a nice way to relax between classes.”
James Friel ’26
“Now that it’s warmer, going outside is a nice way to relax between classes,” Fifth Former James Friel said. “If I could have one class held outside, it would be biology, because it is one of my more difficult classes.”
Friel isn’t alone in this thought. Many students agree that going outside helps break up the school day while absorbing vitamin D and putting students in a better mood. They argue it also makes difficult classes feel less draining and think outdoor classes could improve focus, while others worry that it might be a distraction.
“Personally, I utilize free blocks to work ahead in classes, which is why I also prefer to work indoors as it allows me to focus.” Fourth Former Anantvir Othie said. “For lunch, however, I do believe eating outside is more enjoyable at times.”
Research supports the idea that spending time outdoors benefits both mental and physical health. A study from Harvard Health shows that just 20 minutes in nature significantly reduces stress levels, helping people feel more relaxed and focused. With students heading outside more often during lunch and free blocks, this shift could improve their overall well-being without them even realizing it.
Students seem to agree. Fourth Former Lukas Messic said, “Going outside is a nice way to relax in between classes,” helping relieve stress from schoolwork. He also pointed out that outdoor free time feels more flexible. “You actually can do what you want and not what someone else chooses,” Messic said.
When it comes to holding classes outdoors, students have different ideas. Messic believes that “music goes hand in hand with nature” and that having class outside on a nice day “makes learning music more enjoyable.” Othie, however, thinks English would be a better fit since it “focuses on reflection and discussion, which can be done while sitting or walking outside.”
While classes remain indoors for now, the increase in outdoor activity proves how much students value taking a break to breathe in the fresh air and soak in the dazzling sunlight.