Education officials say winter break is the perfect time to keep students’ minds active.  Nearly two million Illinois public school students are gearing up for winter vacations.  State Superintendent of Education Chris Koch says there are “teachable moments” during holiday activities and outings that can broaden students’ minds.  Suggestions include a trip to the local library and encouraging kids to read at least 30 minutes a day.  Other opportunities to learn include connecting with family members.  An Illinois Teacher of the Year suggests a history lesson of sorts — by visiting elderly relatives and asking them about their holiday traditions and how they’ve changed.  Education officials say a way to incorporate math around the holidays is baking; doubling a recipe could be a lesson in fractions.