**The media below contains the opinion of an individual student and therefore does not represent or speak to the values of Vestavia Hills High School and Vestavia Hills City Schools**
I get it, there is lots to complain about when it comes to school. The hallways are too crowded, the lunchroom food can be mid, there are five tests tomorrow, and you cannot use your phone! At least there is a whole week of Thanksgiving to relax!
I know it is a hot take, but VHHS made it on my gratitude list. Maybe you will be grateful for the following too:
Advanced Courses: Not many schools in Alabama offer as many advanced or AP classes as we do. When I chat with friends from other schools, they are surprised that all of my core classes are APs. While VHHS does not have all the courses, teachers are considering adding more APs like Physics C Mechanics. If you want to take an AP test that VHHS does not offer, the teachers and staff will help you register and self-study.
So many activities!: On VNN, it is exciting to hear about rare sports like golf, bowling, and fishing (did you know that VHHS has a fishing team?). Activities from sports to academic teams also get recognition along with the mainstream football and basketball teams. While the Wednesday club schedules are confusing, they are a refreshing break to do something you enjoy. If there is not a club you enjoy, you can even create your own club.
The lit library: On top of books, the library offers charging ports, printing, and games! It is fun to visit the library before school or during lunch to work on a puzzle and browse the newly arrived books. If you are competitive, participate in Tuesday Trivia, Wordle Wednesday, or a reading challenge.
Pep rallies! When I post pep rally reels on my Instagram, some of my friends from other schools are surprised by the spirit. Not every school has strobe lights and mattress relay races at their pep rallies! I’m glad that VHHS emphasizes community and spirit along with academics.
A giving spirit: Ultimately, the pep rallies and spirit activities center around charities. Traditions like the student-faculty basketball game, talent show, and school dances raise lots of money. It’s great knowing that your spirit and fun also help others!
The chefs are cooking!: Not every day might be your favorite lunch, but the cafeteria has good options. I personally love tacos, wings, and grilled cheese. The chefs also prepare special meals and desserts for holidays. The Thanksgiving lunch was delicious!
Top-tier teachers: The teachers do their best to prepare you for tests and college. VHHS has the most National Merit Semifinalists in the state and high passing rates for APs. Sometimes, that means harder lectures and homework, but your teachers can help you outside of class. Teaching is hard work and there is a national teacher shortage, so I’m very thankful for my teachers at VHHS.
Sometimes, when I have a bad day and do not want to go to school, I ultimately go to see my friends and attend my favorite classes. The next time you dread coming to school, remember that there are a lot of resources to help you at Vestavia. It could be a lot worse!
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