Thirteen advanced placement students from Habersham Central High School were honored Wednesday, May 21, for completing the AP Capstone Diploma Program, the school’s most rigorous academic track. The recognition took place during a celebratory luncheon at Piedmont University’s Student Commons, attended by the students and their families.
Sponsored by Peach State Federal Credit Union, a longtime supporter of the Habersham County School System, the luncheon marked the culmination of a two-year academic journey that challenged students to undertake intensive, self-directed research projects. Topics ranged from environmental science studies, like water quality in the Soque River, to social science investigations, including an analysis of parenting styles among military veterans.
Rigorous program
“This is the most rigorous program that we offer at the high school,” said Dr. Martha Cantrell, Gifted Program Coordinator at Habersham Central. “So today is really a celebration to honor them and the work that they’ve completed. They’ve really taken the hard road and have prepared themselves well for the next steps.”
The AP Capstone Program combines AP Seminar and AP Research courses, requiring students to collect and analyze data, construct arguments, and present findings through written papers and presentations. It is designed to develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary for college and beyond.
Acknowledge accomplishments
The students’ work was guided and supported by faculty, including Cantrell and Dr. Kathleen Addison, AP History and AP Research Instructor. “I teach AP U.S. History and the Capstone research class, so I’ve had many of these students for two full years,” she said.
Addison said the event was a meaningful way to acknowledge the students’ accomplishments.
“It’s just a way that I can recognize, that we can recognize these students. Let them know that we are proud of them and that we see the hard work they’ve done,” she said. “And even though they’re leaving Habersham Central, we are always rooting for them.”
She added that the program gives students a unique opportunity to connect their passions to their academics. “These students have choice. They can choose any topic they want to pursue. It’s a chance for them to let what they love meet what they do in the classroom,” Addison explained. “They get to interact with the community, and so many people in this community have helped them achieve their goals. We’re grateful for that.”
‘Keep doing hard things’
Habersham Central Principal Dr. Adam Bagwell acknowledged the students’ achievements and commended them for embracing difficult academic challenges. “We are very proud of you and impressed by your accomplishments,” he said. “You accepted some challenges that you didn’t have to accept. You embraced doing some hard things that you didn’t have to do. I want to commend you for choosing something hard. It’s not easy to go through this process.”
Bagwell encouraged students to carry that mindset forward. “As you leave Habersham Central, keep doing hard things. When you do that, you make yourself better and you improve.”
Habersham County School Superintendent Patrick Franklin also addressed the audience, expressing pride in both the students and their families. “Thank you for trusting your students with us on this journey,” he said, as he recognized the parents with a round of applause.
The luncheon served as a meaningful conclusion to the students’ Capstone experience, celebrating not only their academic accomplishments but also the dedication and support of the educators and families who helped guide them along the way.
Retirement
Cantrell was also recognized for her achievements with the program. A 45 year educator, she will be retiring after graduation. Franklin thanked her for all of her hard work and dedication with the AP Capstone Diploma Program and as an educator in Northeast Georgia.
Peach State Federal Credit Union recognized Cantrell for her dedication as a lifelong educator. John Fair presented her with a crystal peach. He informed the audience that this was only the third one he had presented during his time with the credit union.
