As the Minnesota Education Association (MEA) weekend approaches, the interest in students’ plans arises. From staying home to visiting colleges across the country, students look forward to this short break from school.

Some students, such as senior Alex Luke, are spending their breaks participating in sports. Luke plans to compete with her Minnesota Ice Cougars Hockey Team in their annual fall tournament. Luke enjoys not only the sport of hockey but her team and the opportunities it presents. “My favorite part of playing for this team is all the travel we do. I’ve gotten to go to Detroit and Nashville this year. We’re going to Denver and Arizona, and I’m really thankful for all the travel opportunities that it brought me,” Luke said.

Luke plays both center and right wing for the Cougars and looks forward to playing in their second tournament of the season. In addition to competing in athletics, Luke enjoys a break from education. “My favorite way to recharge from school is to sleep in every morning while also hanging out with my friends,” Luke said.

Senior Midge Sanderson plans to travel to Florida for entertainment and educational purposes. While down south, Sanderson looks forward to attending Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Concert and visiting colleges. Sanderson has always been a big fan of Taylor Swift and has attended four of her concerts. In addition to attending The Eras Tour, Sanderson is interested in touring both the University of Miami and the University of Tampa.

Ava Jackson is visiting Texas, where she is attending college tours and her soon-to-be Aunt’s wedding. While in Texas, Ava has plans to tour Texas Christian University and Southern Methodist University. Along with college tours, Jackson is excited to explore the state of Texas and all that it has to offer. “I enjoy my time in Texas because of the warm weather and environment of Dallas,” Jackson said.

Finally, Caitlin Culbert plans to travel to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she looks forward to attending Morgan Wallen’s “One Night at a Time” Tour. Culbert is spending time in North Carolina with her parents and boyfriend, Luke Guggenburger, a senior here. “I can’t wait to get away for the long weekend not only to take a break from college applications and school work but to enjoy time with these people,” Culbert said.

MEA break opens up opportunities for relaxing or being productive. This year, our Red Knights plan to do a little bit of both.