Feature STORY
CONNECTING MODERN LESSONS WITH
Catholic Values In the first semester, the High School hosted a student showcase featuring the Social Justice capstone projects and AP Computer Science Principles apps. Both highlighted Catholic values, with the capstone projects showcasing solutions to national and global injustices and the apps centering on serving others in alignment with the core values of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Students in AP Computer Science Principles could choose to base their app on a wide range of data sets. Using that data, various programs were developed, including ones about learning sign language, female legislators, the world democracy index, and workers with disabilities in the United States. Once their programs were functioning, students designed and printed posters to present their work and tie it in with the mission of the SNJMs. QR codes on the posters allowed the school community to interact with the apps while listening to students share their ideas.
14 SPRING 2022
“After working so hard this year, it’s helpful to have a reminder that we are learning all of these skills and tools to do good in the world and hopefully make people’s lives a little better,” AP Computer Science Principles teacher Tyler Mokris said. In addition to their presentation, seniors in the Social Justice course also submitted a research paper and infographic. Beyond connecting to a pillar of Catholic Social Teaching, the project required a connection to the mission and ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Names, a Saint and the influence of popular media. Students also interviewed an expert who works in a related field and completed service in a related field.
