NATCHEZ — Summer school is not something many children look forward to, but a number of high schoolers here are looking at it as an opportunity.

This summer, Natchez High School is offering the chance to make-up credits, finish credits and even earn additional credits through its summer school program.

Natchez-Adams School District Public Relations Coordinator Steven Richardson said students are able to earn either one half or one whole credit toward their graduation requirements, depending on how much summer school the student attends.

Two sessions are available, from 8 to 11 a.m. or from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Attending one session a day earns a half credit, while attending both sessions a day earns a full credit.

“It really mirrors a college summer school, as for the extended hours for the class,” Richardson said. “(Students) are getting the experience of a college student by having extended class hours and then the college experience of getting ahead by attending a summer school class.”

Students said, while they would rather be on break, they don’t mind giving up a little vacation to further their education.

“If you do everything during the school year, you’ll be stressed out,” Malana Tennessee said. “I’d rather be on break, but it will be worth it.”

Tennessee is an upcoming ninth grader at Natchez High and is taking physical education and science, health safety and nutrition through the summer school program in hopes to get ahead and possibly graduate early.

Gabrielle Timmons is also an upcoming ninth grader and is taking the same classes as Tennessee, and is hoping to put them toward her future career.

Timmons hopes to major in forensic science at Dade University in Florida.

“I’m here so I can be prepared for college and maybe go early,” Timmons said. “It’s helping me learn about different body parts.”

Summer school administrator Naomi Walton said she thinks the students will learn a lot this summer, and not just what the classes have to offer.

“This is showing the students the importance of education,” Walton said. “It’s teaching them responsibility, discipline and focus.”

Summer school at Natchez High School began June 8 and will end July 9.

Malana Tennessee is the daughter of Cassandra and Tarvis Tennessee.

Gabrielle Timmons is the daughter of Jarita and Roderick King.