For several years, Mrs. Yungeberg’s Senior English classes have been creating portfolios to display their success throughout the years, and goals for the future. The portfolios contain a goal sheet created at the beginning of the year, essays typed throughout the year, a resume, letters of recommendation, and pictures to document all of these items included.
The goal sheet created at the beginning of the year goes in the very front of the portfolio, showing goals for the remainder of high school and for college. The goals list isn’t the only thing included however. During Senior English class, an essay about senior’s goals is typed by each individual student. Next in the portfolio is an academic essay that shows participation in academic activities and achievements. This portion of the portfolio is senior, Chyanne Fields, favorite part. Chyanne says, “Working on our portfolios has helped keep me organized and keep track of what I’ve accomplished during my high school career.” The seniors finish the essay portion of their portfolios with an extra-curricular activity essay to display their success outside of school.
Aside from academics, seniors complete service projects throughout the entire year. Each senior is required to complete four hours of service in the community or surrounding communities each month. Their service project agreement contract is signed by their supervisor and is also placed in their portfolio, along with a mentor agreement. Mentor meetings are another part of this project that seniors are required to do. Each senior chooses an adult who has influenced them throughout their high school career to be their mentor. Duties of the mentors and mentees are to meet twice a month to discuss goals, deadlines, and any other help needed. A picture of the mentor and mentee is displayed in the portfolio, along with pictures from service hours.
Although this seems like a lot of work, seniors enjoy being able to document their success and achievements. Harrison Blaske, senior, has enjoyed working on his portfolio, saying, “The portfolios have been a lot of work, but all of the steps we take to complete them will definitely help me in the future.”