By Michele Miller, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
The senior project has long been a tradition in Pasco County — a "get out of high school" hurdle meant to better prepare students for what comes next.
And for many, the multi-layered, year-long project is well under way.
While each high school has its own nuances, most senior projects have similar components: picking a subject or topic at the beginning of the school year, writing a research paper on that topic, working with an adult mentor or a local organization on a product or event, putting together a portfolio and finally, giving a PowerPoint presentation, typically in the weeks leading up to graduation, while dressed in proper business attire before a panel of judges.
"It's not just about getting kids ready for college," said English teacher Harmonie Blankenship, who serves as senior project coordinator for J.W. Mitchell High ...