What is the Capstone Project Program?
The Clarksburg High School Capstone Project Program is a part of the school's Signature Program. It is a whole school program designed to enhance and extend the comprehensive high school curriculum in a technological environment, as well as provide students with unique project based learning experiences. The program seeks to build a bridge for students between educational skills and their relevancy in the real world.
Students are provided the opportunity to participate in a Capstone Project and exhibition in their senior year exploring possible career pathways, and investigating an area of strong interest.
The three phases of the Capstone Project include the development of a project of choice, a five to ten page research paper on a related topic, a 10-15 minute presentation before a panel of staff with a presentation at a Signature Showcase that includes a visual display of their efforts.
Project pathways are divided into 6 broad categories of study:
–Arts, Humanities, and Media communications.
–Business, Finance and Information Systems
–Law, History, and Public Policy
–Math, Engineering, and Architecture
–BioSciences, Health and Environmental Issues
–Education, Human and Community Services.
When electing to complete a Capstone Project, students will be mentored by professionals in the field of the student's interest. The project emphasizes collaboration, research, creativity, writing, and oral presentation.
How does it work?
The student will complete the project as an Independent Study:
The Independent Study can be associated with:
a.) A semester long project in any junior/senior level class, however they would have to meet the requirements of the Capstone Project, register with Ms. Costlow to let her know they chose this option, and check in with her for periodic updates most likely through their Advisory Period.
b.) An internship they are already involved with and again, meet the requirements of the Capstone Project and register with Ms. Debelius.
c.) As an independent project of interest (during the school year). They must register during the school registration period via a registration form available on the website and at school. They will complete their project with a handbook as a guide and report for periodic check points (during the time of their advisory class or other mutually agreed upon time).
*Note: If doing the Capstone Project as an independent study option, .5 elective credit will be assigned to the student per semester. The student is eligible for recognition at graduation as a Capstone Scholar, granted an honor cord, and has the honor noted on their transcript if all requirements are met.
What are the requirements?
1. ) An in depth project must fit into one of these Career Pathways.
–Arts, Humanities, and Media communications.
–Business, Finance and Information Systems
–Law, History, and Public Policy
–Math, Engineering, and Architecture
–BioSciences, Health and Environmental Issues
–Education, Human and Community Services.
2.) 5 -10 page research/literature review paper related to the project topic.
3.) A developed project that incorporates some use of technology. Technology includes a broad interpretation including hardware/software applications AND the process of applying knowledge to solve a problem or extend a student's capabilities. Aspects such as the project design and problem solving process, research methods, and libraries and information services extend to the 'technological environment' of the CHS program.
4.) You must have a mentor to consult, someone knowledgeable in your area of interest - You can select someone on your own such as a teacher or community member, or we will help you find one.
5.) A presentation to a panel of “judges” who could be students, parents, teachers, or community members.
6.) Presentation at a Signature Project Showcase in May toward the end of the school year.
How do I pick a project topic?
Choose something that interests you personally. This can be a hobby or something
you learned in class. It could also be about your culture, a future career choice, an issue you care about in your community, or an original piece of art, music, literature or dance.
Give yourself time to develop your idea. Right now you need to have a general idea. Brainstorm. Ask yourself questions about your idea. What do I already know about this topic? What do I want to find out about this topic? Are there teachers or community members or business professionals who can help me learn more about it?
Do I have to have my project completely planned out at this point?
No, the first step is to declare your interest in doing a project as an independent study. There will be time to develop your project when your timeline starts in the Fall. Once you have determined your interest you will be asked to turn in the attached registration form to Ms. Debelius.
Can I work with another student?
Yes, you can work with another student but you will both need to write on a separate aspect of the research paper. You can present together.
Can I do the project over the summer?
Yes, you can work on the project over the summer, but the timeline will follow the school year schedue in terms of due dates.
What are the benefits of doing a Capstone Project?
•Senior Projects are incorporated by colleges and well regarded in the work world. Some students have included products from their Capstone projects in their college applications or applications to the world of work.
•You have the opportunity to work within an area of strong interest.
•Emphasis on real-world research, technology and presentation skills. You will receive support and coaching in the areas of project design, research, and oral presentation skills when you meet during your Advisory period.
•A Student completing a Capstone Project will earn recognition at graduation:
Signature Scholar (2.5+ GPA)
Signature Scholar of Merit (3.5+ GPA)
What do I do if I have more questions?
If you have additional questions or a comment about this program, fill out the form below and send or contact Ms. Debelius at the email/phone at the top of this page.
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....through integrated technology 
