In my current work, I have to take a lunch break (half an hour) if I am working a full day. The Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) requires it. When I was working in the public schools as an intern, I got about an hour for lunch. Unlike most other interns, I opted to eat with my supervising teacher in the staff lounge. Hanging out in the staff lounge and talking to all of the veteran teachers was an incredibly valuable experience. If I'd gone the route the other interns did and left campus for lunch, I would have missed out on some fantastic stories and learning opportunities from some incredible people.
Since I'm going to be a public school teacher someday, I know I will be taking lunch in staff lounges for years to come. I'm looking forward to it
