Eighth Grade Capstone

The Eighth Grade Capstone Project is a yearlong experience that challenges students to investigate food insecurity in Northeast Ohio and develop meaningful ways to address it. Through research, field experiences, conversations with community leaders, and hands-on service, students gain a deeper understanding of the causes and impacts of hunger while developing skills in collaboration and civic engagement. 

This year, students successfully launched a food rescue initiative at the Shaker Campus. They started by conducting a food waste audit during lunch, interviewing kitchen, staff reviewing health codes and more. They then created system to collect, freeze, and donate surplus cafeteria food to the Lutheran Men’s Shelter in Cleveland. The program has redirected hundreds of pounds of cooked food that would have otherwise gone to waste while providing students with a tangible way to make a difference in their community. 

Looking ahead, next year’s students will build upon this work by expanding the initiative to the Hunting Valley Campus, exploring its food waste, refining the donation process, strengthening community partnerships, and continuing the Capstone tradition of turning learning into action.