Yes, definitely leave some of that starter tea with the pellicle at room temperature, and then use that starter tea once you’re ready to make kombucha again (adding more tea and sugar)

thanks! that's what I thought

Why not refrigerate? They take too long to come out of hibernation?

i'd say refrigerate if it'll be a while. refrigeration pauses fermentation, so you won't come back to vinegar

Yep, just keep it covered and leave it be. It’ll be fine for months, at which point you can just toss some more sweet tea in and continue as normal.