‘Personal Projects’ at Taft HS help students explore their passion as they become independent, lifelong learners

by BRIAN NADIG

From recreating the famous dance scene in the classic movie “Breakfast Club” to making a sweater — these are some of the personal projects which Taft High School students have completed at Taft, which has been designated as an International Baccalaureate World School.

“Usually it’s like a passion project,”

Taft principal Dr. Ryan Glowacz said. “(It’s a) practical exploration … which allows students an opportunity to pursue their own chosen interests in a meaningful way.”

Glowacz added that students are encouraged to get creative and that all sophomores are required to complete a personal project. Each year personal projects are presented at a fair at the Taft Freshman Academy.

At the April 8 Taft Local School Council meeting, Glowacz described a project in which a student produced a video depicting the musical scene from “Breakfast Club.” He said that the production, including the dance moves by the student performers, was spot-on.

“It was an opportunity to learn something new,” said LSC student member Izabel Newton. She learned how to crochet a sweater for her personal project.

LSC student member Jack Matheis said that for his project he conducted a study on substance abuse, interviewing students and focusing on vaping and tobacco use. As a result a vaping awareness program was planned for the freshman academy.

Other projects have included the creation of paintings and in some instances students have explored their cultural heritage, including a study on soul food.

Students are asked to create a plan for completing the project, which the school hopes will send them on a pathway to becoming “independent, lifelong learners” — one of the essential elements of the IB philosophy.

IB initially was created for the children of diplomats, setting a standard curriculum as their families relocated around the world. In the upper grades, Taft and other IB high schools offer rigorous diploma classes, whose successful completion can earn students college credit.

Over the years at LSC meetings, Taft parents have reported that IB diploma program played a significant role in their child being accepted to colleges and universities.

The IB philosophy is incorporated throughout Taft’s curriculum.

Registration at the freshman academy, 4071 N. Oak Park Ave., is being held from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through June 5. More information is available at www.tafthighschool.org.

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