One of the significant assignments that must be completed before graduating from high school is a Capstone project. Many students working on it during their senior year are excited to come up with original topics for their personal projects. Notable capstones are by Hanna Layher who is painting a mural and Jordan Hill who is collecting recycling.

Hanna Layher wanted to create a welcome and secure setting in the girls bathroom. Her capstone project is a mural she created for the walls, where she would like to add lots of flowers, butterflies, and other environmental features to make it colorful. She developed this concept after observing some unkind things that occur in the bathroom during passing time or skipping classes.  Hanna explains that it has been the norm for students to skip class while sitting in the restroom. Hanna did not enjoy the atmosphere that the restroom at the school created for other people as well as for herself. “I covered up the graffiti on the walls since it featured really explicit and detailed pictures of various things,” Hanna stated. She wanted the restroom to be used in a supportive way;girls supporting girls. Hanna received a significant buzz for assembling a basket full of feminine hygiene items for females who are in need. She observes individuals taking some and leaving some for the next person. After she graduates from high school, she wants her capstone project to be viewed favorably.  She continued by saying, “ I know that the restroom might be repainted for some other student who wants to do the same thing I was, but I want the thought process behind what I did still in people’s minds and hearts.” 

Another senior at Watertown High School is Jordan Hill. Jordan’s focus of his capstone project at the school is recycling. Mrs. Ferrucci, a Paraprofessional at Watertown High, had given him this suggestion. Jordan says he wants the school to do a better job recycling and that there should be bins for the teachers in each classroom and in the cafeteria.The more recyclables he can gather, the better. Teachers and Paraprofessionals who were touched by the fact that Jordan let a life skill student  assist with this project, have provided Jordan with a lot of positive feedback. Jordan says, “I hope people remember my capstone. I hope to make a difference in the community and leave my imprint on the school.”