It is very likely that over Spring Break, many students spent their time lounging on the beach, hitting the slopes or just hanging out at home. However for some seniors, hard work filled their days.

For the past five years, Assistant Principal  Tim Jones has been taking seniors to New Orleans, LA, fondly referred to as ‘NOLA,’ to provide service to those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. The group consists of students from all four Rockwood High Schools.

This year, the students spent four days working with Habitat for Humanity, building houses for those left without shelter. In addition, they traveled to Mississippi to spend a day with students at Pass Christian High School, a charter school that Lafayette “adopted” after the Hurricane hit. Seniors also spent a day at the beach.

“It’s a tangible way for students to get introduced to community service,” Jones said. “As adults, we want to continually look for ways to give back and help others.”

Senior Jessica Foley was among the approximately 30 Lancers on the trip. She thoroughly enjoyed the trip, explaining that she knew it would be somewhat laborious, but it was such a great time.

“Spring Break was fun but also took a lot of hard work. It exceeded my expectations,” Foley said.

The seniors are given this opportunity to have fun, but also to learn about the importance of humanity and helping.

“We hope they recognize the value of spending time and energy helping other people,” Jones said.

When asked what she would tell a student who is trying to decide if they should take the trip, Foley said “Definitely go! You have plenty of other spring breaks to go to the beach. You don’t get another opportunity like this.”