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Senior Capstone
Applying Knowledge and Skills
Arlington Tech Capstone
Capstone is the culmination of an Arlington Tech student’s cross-curricular, project-based learning, and career development. Arlington Tech seniors have the opportunity to participate in a year-long capstone experience. This experience provides a gateway for students to apply and advance the knowledge, technical expertise, and research skills they learned in Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses within an authentic real world setting or by creating an educational plan to earn a degree, industry certification, or license.
An Integrated Approach
Preparation for the Capstone starts in the 9th grade and continues to build up to the 12th grade:
9th Grade – Foundations through the Cornerstone
Students enroll in foundational Career & Technical Education courses like Foundations of Engineering Design and establish an understanding of project-based learning. Students learn more about pathway options at ACC.
10th Grade – Exploration through the Keystone
Students begin to narrow down their CTE pathway, have the opportunity to take NOVA’s orientation course, and periodically participate in work-based learning coordinated activities (example: Career Fairs, Informational Interviews).
11th Grade: Preparation through the Archstone
Students participate in regular activities, such as mock interviews, to prepare for Capstone. Activities also include creating a resume and personal website to showcase their skills and knowledge. Throughout the year, students meet with our Capstone Coordinator and Partnership Coordinator to explore opportunities and connect with possible Capstone sites. Students go through an application process to be chosen for Capstone opportunities.
12th Grade: Application through the Capstone
Students complete a year-long experiential capstone aligned to their individual goals.
The Capstone
In the 12th grade year, students complete a 150-hour experiential or educational capstone:
Experiential Capstone
- Students complete a minimum of a 150-hour experience linked ot their chosen pathway over the academic year.
Educational Capstone
- Students enroll in additional classes at ACC and/or NOVA to earn a/n:
-
- Associate Degree
- General Studies Certificate
- Industry Certification
- Industry License
Capstone Structures:
- Students apply to Capstone sites during spring of junior year.
- Ability to earn 1 course credit
- Offer work-based learning experience such as internships, mentorships, and teaching or research assistant.
- Experience an opportunity with external partners or college faculty.
- Extends a full academic year from Labor Day to Memorial Day.
- Consists of a minimum of 150 hours over the year.
- Provides students early release to go to Capstone sites.
