Imagine pouring your heart into a passion project for over six months while simultaneously balancing a daily academic workload, extracurriculars, a social life, and family responsibilities. That is exactly the challenge Meridian’s 10th-grade students face each year with the Personal Project. On March 12, 2026, that hard work finally took center stage in the Mays Gym.
As challenging as the process may be, the finished products—and the growth behind them—proved to be more than worth it.
For the faculty who oversee these months of labor, the reward is seeing students develop as individuals. Personal Project Advisor Ms. Cullen expressed deep gratitude for her role in the process.
“To see students’ interests beyond my classroom is rewarding,” Ms. Cullen shared. “The students have the opportunity to complete a passion project that takes months, and the ability for these kids to adjust and showcase their self-management skills is preparation for college.”
The gym was packed with projects that showcased a mix of technical skill and creative flair. Haddon Henzelka provided one of the day’s most popular attractions: a fully functioning jukebox. Student Naomi Rubio noted how unique it was to see a working jukebox up close, especially the intricate inner workings that usually stay hidden.
Another standout was Mason Morgan, whose custom t-shirts caught the eye of his peers. Ella McNutt praised the depth of his work, noting, “A lot of thought went into his t-shirts. The process of layering to get the right colors was great.” Mason also went the extra mile for engagement, taking commissions for his products.
While the road to the expo wasn’t always easy, the students definitely gained a sense of resilience. As Dalyla Florez, who focused on improving her dance skills through research,
explained: “Seeing growth over time in my skills and in my project was well worth it.”
Meridian students once again proved that while nothing good in life comes easy, the results of curiosity and persistence are truly extraordinary.
