In a noteworthy achievement, ten recent graduates and one current senior from Chelmsford High School have received their Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diplomas. This program equips students with essential skills such as critical thinking, research, collaboration, and presentation, all vital for success in academics and future careers.
To qualify for the AP Capstone Diploma, students must score 3 or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research, along with four additional AP Exams of their choosing. The 2024-25 school year saw these Chelmsford High students achieving this honor:
- Margot Betton
- Joseph Evans
- Julia Fields
- Jessica Jerusal
- Shalini Kirubakara
- Sahana Macherla
- Anne Magny
- Anjana Muraleedaran
- Jocelyn Pica
- Sophia Roy
- Jennifer Yu
Celebrating Academic Excellence
Stephanie Quinn, the K-12 social sciences department coordinator for Chelmsford Public Schools, expressed immense pride in the students’ accomplishments. “We are incredibly proud of the students who participated in the AP Capstone Diploma program,” Quinn stated. “With the help of our dedicated teachers, these students were able to explore their passions through scholarly research in an impactful, multi-year program that will serve them well long after high school.”
The AP Capstone program has gained wide participation, with over 160,000 students from more than 3,500 schools worldwide engaging in the curriculum during the recent academic year. Out of this group, approximately 27,650 students achieved the AP Capstone Diploma, while 12,430 students earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate.
Empowering Future Leaders
Bianca Peart, global director of the AP Capstone Diploma program, emphasized the importance of the initiative in fostering curiosity among students. “The AP Capstone program reignites curiosity in the classroom,” Peart noted. “Students are not only building essential skills for college and career success but they’re also discovering how their voices and ideas can make an impact.”
The head of the Advanced Placement Program, Trevor Packer, also congratulated the students on their achievements. “Their hard work has helped them build foundational skills in project management, presentation, collaboration, and research that will contribute to their success in college and in their professional careers,” Packer stated.
This recognition reflects the dedication of both students and educators within the Chelmsford community, reinforcing the value of academic rigor and research skills in preparing young individuals for future challenges. As the world continues to evolve, programs like AP Capstone are crucial in cultivating the next generation of leaders.
