Senior Projects
Charting Paths from Inquiry to Discovery to Achievement
Through Senior Projects, students spend their final trimester investigating an off-campus research question of their own design. Shaped by unique passions and questions, Senior Projects are the embodiment of the best of our students’ fearless thinking: critical inquiry, academic autonomy, and bold imagination. The objective is for each senior to create work that’s entirely their own, their contribution to a field of inquiry, organization, community, or other real-world endeavor. The culmination of years of academic and personal growth, Senior Projects are also a visible sign that students are ready to flourish in college and in the world.
Senior Project Details
Senior Project Standards
To foster in our students valuable insight about utilizing their knowledge in the real world.
To maintain a sense of intellectual curiosity during the research-and-application process.
To present their research findings to the school community, parents, and guests.
To demonstrate perseverance and resourcefulness to serve our students now and in the future.
A Snapshot of the Senior Project Trimester
Phase One
In trimesters 1 and 2, students craft their research question; secure an internship, university lab, or field work site; and present a research proposal, which is approved by a committee of teachers and administrators. They gather resources, make travel arrangements if needed, and create a project schedule.
Phase Two
In their final trimester, students work at their designated off-campus project site and meet regularly with their advisors. To document progress and remain connected to their school community while in the field, students blog weekly about their experience.
Presentations of Findings
At the end of the trimester, students return to campus and present an analysis of their experience and share final products and findings to a community of peers, staff, and parents.