Senior Capstone

The Capstone class leads seniors through their project or portfolio requirements. Students may choose to focus on particular disciplines separately through portfolio presentations, or to propose a capstone project which combines the application of several disciplines of study. Our students present their projects to community members, project mentors, parents, and fellow students. They are evaluated on rubrics specific to the disciplines they have chosen. Student work is evaluated by teachers and members of the community who are knowledgeable in the discipline of study. Portfolio and project requirements meet alternate demonstrations of competency requirements as set forth by the state. 

The capstone class and requirements have been a distinctive and innovative aspect of the MVHS experience for years. This class is the culminating application of student knowledge and skills. It is a comprehensive component of an MVHS diploma, and is now a model being considered by the state of New Mexico for seniors across the state. 

Over the years MVHS has witnessed a wide range of projects. Several have pursued engineering projects, building or rebuilding a Jeep, a motorcycle, a camper trailer, a Tiny Home, and a bicycle. Other projects have taken students around the globe to places like Costa Rica, Germany, Mexico, and Nicaragua. Others have embarked on fitness-related activities like rock climbing, personal fitness routines, Century bike rides, basketball and pickleball court, bike trails, skateboard ramps and ski training. Others have exercised their artistic talents through painting, poetry, murals, original music recordings, and filmmaking.  Others have pursued economic dreams such as  becoming stock analysts, e-currency miners, and entrepreneurs. And others have used their talents to improve their communities by providing music for senior citizens, developing children’s camps, and encouraging wellness awareness.