Students and staff at Elkins High School get a week off each November for rifle season and the Thanksgiving holiday, a local tradition that many support. The break allows hunters to take part in the popular outdoor season, which is considered both a hobby and a way of life in the community.

For assistant principal Brian Currence, who has been hunting nearly his entire life, hunting is about connection.

“It gives me another way to relate to my students and gives me something to talk to them about other than school.’ Mr. Currence said.

Teachers and students agree that hunting offers a positive way to spend time outdoors and stay active through the winter months.

“In my opinion, hunting clears my mind, being in nature, and it brings me closer to god.” Kyan Beam said.

While nationwide, the number of hunters has declined, it is still an important part of growing up in the state of West Virginia.

“My dad took me when I was little. We do it for the food, and it is a good way for me to escape and relax.” Mr Blake said.

Mr.Blake’s experience highlights a personal connection to hunting that extends beyond the community aspect. This personal connection emphasizes the diverse motivations behind participation in hunting, which can range from practical needs to deeply ingrained family traditions.

“I feel like the time I spend hunting brings me peace and discipline, considering I can’t necessarily talk or be loud, it teaches you the kind of lessons that make you stronger both in school and in life.” Kyan Beam said.

This quote echoes a broader theme of personal growth and self-discovery that many hunters experience through their engagement with nature and the traditions of hunting.

Ultimately, the annual rifle season break at Elkins High is more than just a week off from school. It’s a testament to the importance of community, tradition, and the enduring connection between the people of West Virginia and the natural world around them.

The break exemplifies how deeply intertwined hunting is with the local culture and way of life in West Virginia. Despite changing times and declining numbers nationwide, the break remains a valued tradition. Offering students and staff alike a chance to connect with nature, family, and community.