Ever wanted to get away from all the stress of school and homework? What about just getting out of the house? Everyone knows you need a break once in a while--something fun and exciting that you can do with your friends. That's exactly what the middle school had in mind when they decided to have a skate night on Thursday, October 15.

On the third Thursday of each month, each grade takes turns hosting a skate night at Big Time Skate Center. It is open only to middle school students and any parents that want to stay. The cost of skate rentals is four dollars and the money goes back to the grade that was sponsoring it that night, which helps pay for activities and trips like Gold Card and the MAP incentive trip to Worlds of Fun.

"It's a fun way to come out and raise money. The proceeds, of course, will go to our future field trips...and it's a fun way just to get out and get to see your friends and spend some time and get to see the teachers skate and act normal," said Eighth Grade Math Teacher Christie Webber. "...It’s always fun to go to school the next day and talk to the kids about skate night and who won the limbo and who won the speed skate and the costume contest. It’s fun to see the kids and interact with them outside of school."

The eighth grade teachers chose October as their month to host. They wanted October to incorporate a Halloween theme, complete with decorations and a costume contest. Some students donned costumes like witches and cats, while others were dressed up as superheroes and bumblebees. The costume contest consisted of four categories: Best Occupation, Best Twins, Best Famous Person, and Best Superhero. Prizes included five-dollar gift certificates for the concession stands and third place received candy bars.

Activities didn't stop at the costume contest. Students competed in games like speed skating and limbo, which were also opportunities for them to win candy. Asides from the games and prizes, the students also enjoyed a night filled with music and lots of laughter.

The prizes the students win and the money the grades earn are not the only benefits of having a skate night. Many students and teachers enjoy the chance to forget about schoolwork and just have fun.

"...I get to hang out with my friends without having to worry about being home on time," said Eighth Grade Student Monyca Roup. "It relieves a lot of stress."

Eighth Grade Student Lance Hodges had a similar opinion about skate night. "I say it’s a good thing because you can just get away and not have to worry about school for a night," he said. "You get to hang out with friends and just let go."

The eighth grade also chose February as their next month to sponsor. The middle school plans to continue having a skate night each month, as long as the students stay interested. It's easy to see that skate nights can be pretty important to have. It's a great way to make money for trips and other activities as well as allow students and teachers to relieve stress and have fun. Besides, who wants to have all work and no play?