Why Do Tucson Students Get Extra Days Off School?

Off-days at school were always the highlights of my year (PTO is close, but it doesn't feel the same). They gave me more time to spend with my friends, vacation time with my family, or just an excuse to play 36 straight hours of MarioKart Wii.

Many of these days off fall on the same day, no matter where you are in America, but Tucson's got one break that just seems ludicrous.

Tucson Rodeo Break

As February begins to come to a close, schools across Tucson will let their kids out for a few days for one specific reason: the Tucson Rodeo is back. This event is such a massive draw for the people of Pima County and beyond, that school decided it wasn't worth the amount of hooky they'd have to deal with if they stayed open.

Typically, these dates fall during the second to last week of February, with the break falling on the 20th and 21st in 2025. Lately, however, some have called to abolish these days, but why?

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The Case Against Rodeo Days

Many of my Tucson friends have told me their fond memories of Rodeo Days. Going to Disneyland, taking trips to see family, or simply just hitting the town for a good time are all among the things students in Pima do. Do you see the problem?

No one's going to the rodeo! Years ago, it was a must-see event that everyone in Arizona would give their left arm to see, but in today's world of instant gratification, kids are more interested in other things.

What do you think? Should schools continue to keep these breaks for tradition's sake, or get the kids back in school?

[Tucson.com][Tucson United School District Calendar]