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Editorials - 12/13/01Senior projects offer benefits for both students, community |
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If we asked, "What has three parts and offers numerous challenges, unexpected pleasures and a sense of genuine accomplishment to those involved," we believe that all members of the Class of 2002, along with their teachers, mentors and parents could answer - in unison.
And we think this is what they'd say. "Senior projects." Initially dreaded by most, hated by some and cursed by a few, this semester's senior projects at both Smoky Mountain and Blue Ridge wrapped up this week with presentations Monday and Tuesday nights. Student speeches were judged by volunteer community members who saw that, as in past years, this year's seniors ended their experience brimming with the confidence and pride that hard work and dedication bring. Here at the newspaper, we've been involved with senior projects since their SMHS inception in 1998, and we have seen firsthand how valuable they can be. In fact, a senior who worked with us that first semester won a statewide award for his journalism project. One of last year's seniors won a prestigious art award and had a photograph she took as part of her project exhibited in New York City. Another won recognition at a car show for an automobile he restored. But the real rewards of these semester-long efforts can only be judged by the seniors themselves. As the students contemplate their project - choosing a topic, finding a mentor, determining a product - it seems a daunting road to travel. However, as they journey along with their English teachers and mentors, they find within themselves unexpected strengths and skills. "August's uncertainty and apprehension have been replaced by December's knowledge and self-confidence" is the way one of this year's seniors described the experience during her Tuesday night speech. Senior projects offer all students - not just those who are academically gifted - the opportunity to explore in detail an interest. Students succeed because they make the decision to research a subject that fascinates them or to explore a potential career choice. Seniors choose topics like surveying, journalism, teaching, photography, carpentry, automotive engine and body work, broadcasting, marketing, jurisprudence, music, medical research and a myriad of others. They modify engines, photograph volleyball games, build gun racks, write stories about local government, teach kindergarten, raise money for a local Alzheimer's center, promote literacy and accomplish a host of other goals. We salute this year's seniors, their teachers and mentors for a job well done, and we applaud senior projects for strengthening the ties between our schools and community. |
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