On Thursday, April 17, 2025, qualifying students from HHS enjoyed a field trip to West County Mall. The trip was a third-quarter incentive for students who had maintained academic performance and positive behavior throughout the school year.

To be eligible, students needed at least a 2.5 GPA and a 3.5 HOWL score; these criteria reflect both academics and respectful behavior. Those who qualified were excused from school after second block and spent three hours at the mall, free to shop, eat, and hang out with friends.

For many students, this incentive gave them a fun and relaxing break, a reward for the hard work they’ve put in throughout the year.

Peyton Carey (9)  is an eligible student who had a great experience.

“Last incentive we went to the movies and then the mall, but when we got to the mall, time went by so fast and we didn’t have much time to shop, but this time spending three hours was so much time which was needed,” said Carey. “This trip felt more relaxing than the last one. I liked just walking around and buying stuff. It was chill.”

Others were happy just to have the time away from school, even if they didn’t spend much. 

Atziry Rivas (10) said, “Honestly, it was just fun to be out of class and with everyone. I didn’t even shop that much, I just liked being there.”

However, not everyone was a fan of the mall field trip.

London Daniels (11) said, “Three hours was a bit too much. After the first hour I was just bored,” Daniels said. “We should have gone somewhere before the mall, but at the end of the day, I’m grateful for having the opportunity to go.”

Brittney Porter (9) shared a similar opinion.

“Although we got the freedom to walk around and do our own thing, it was boring,” said Porter.  “I didn’t do much and would have liked to go somewhere else for two hours, and the last hour at the mall.

Although the trip is meant to be a celebration, it may not have been the best experience for all students. However, for many, the opportunity to take a break from class and spend time with friends is much better than staying in class and doing schoolwork