The final bell of the 2026 school year doesn’t just mark the end of tests and school lunches. For students at Day Creek Intermediate School, it signals the start of a two-month adventure filled with travel, relaxation and new traditions.

The Globe-Trotters

For 7th grader Emma N., summer means an 8,000-mile journey. While many classmates are staying local, Emma is heading to Vietnam and Japan.

“[I’m going to] Vietnam because I want to visit my family. [I want to eat] tropical fruit there because over there the tropical fruit is really fresh and good.” Emma said. “We’re going to go to Osaka in Japan, and we’re gonna go straight there.”

Emma is especially excited to reunite with cousins she hasn’t seen in three years.

She’s not the only traveler. 6th grader Amberly L. is also crossing state lines.

“I’m going to Disneyworld in Florida, and I have family coming over to stay for a few months.” Amberly said.

The Staycation Specialists

On the other end of the spectrum, 7th grader Salvia D. is embracing a relaxed summer at home.

“[I will be] making these dragon puppets out of cardboard and paper, [and] staying home and sleeping,” said Salvia. The avid birdwatcher, who has spotted over 140 birds, also plans to visit local parks in search of more species.

For students like Salvia, a calm staycation is the perfect way to recharge.

The Seasonal Nomads

Some students have a go-to destination that defines their summer. Brinley M. will be spending much of her break at Newport Beach.

“We just go down for a day trip, and then come back home at 8,” said Brinley. “[When I’m there I] just shop around the malls and then I go to eat lunch.”

Brinley says visiting Newport has become her annual summer tradition.

Whether students are flying across the ocean or heading to the beach for the day, one thing is clear: summer offers a much-needed reset. As lockers empty and hallways quiet down, Day Creek students are stepping into their own unique versions of the perfect break.