In 2026, junior high school students should focus on a balanced mix of academic, extracurricular, and personal development activities during their summer vacation. This includes reinforcing foundational skills, exploring new interests, and engaging in community service or travel to broaden their horizons.

The rationale behind this approach is multifaceted. Firstly, reinforcing foundational skills is crucial to prevent summer learning loss, which has been a persistent issue in the United States. According to the National Summer Learning Association, students can lose up to two months of academic progress over the summer. Secondly, exploring new interests through extracurricular activities fosters creativity and critical thinking skills. For instance, a study by the University of California, Los Angeles, found that students who participate in arts programs show improved cognitive and social-emotional development. Lastly, engaging in community service or travel can help students develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a sense of responsibility. The Corporation for National and Community Service reports that young people who volunteer are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education.