By second semester, seniors are bombarded with stories and warnings about the real world. In an effort to provide an entry to the door of adulthood, the school is adopting the “Langley Leap” program.

This optional program provides an alternate route to walking the halls of Langley in the last few weeks of senior year. Select seniors may intern at an approved institution for 11 days—from May 24 to June 8-instead of attending school.

“It’s in the awkward two week period between not really doing anything and studying for finals so I think it’s an awesome alternative,” said senior Blair Stuhlmuller.

Since this is the pilot year for the program, only 100 students will be selected. Therefore, eligibility is competitive and certain qualifications must be met. (See related sidebar.)

Another roadblock includes the fact that a total of 77 hours must be completed in the 11 school days of interning. For some, this proves a difficult requirement. “As interesting as it sounds, I would prefer to use that last week to study for finals and also have some free time rather than participating in an internship at the end of the year,” said senior Clayton Barber.

Still, many seniors are enthusiastically considering participating in the Langley Leap program. “I’m planning on doing an internship for journalism. I hope to intern at a major newspaper because I have had great experiences with journalism in my young life,” said senior Chris Roman.

If accepted to this program, school days essentially end for these seniors on May 24. However, final exams are administered before they leave for their internship, and they must return on June 11 and give a presentation about their experience.

There will be a parent and student interest meeting on Feb. 16 and proposals are due on March 7.