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Merced High students showcase project-based learning in front of trustees
Summary
Students from Merced High presented 164 project-based learning projects and described gains in civic engagement, teamwork and research skills; staff said 496 students participated and the Buck Institute will offer district training this fall.
Merced High students described how project-based learning reshaped their classrooms and ambitions at a meeting of the Merced Union High School District Board of Trustees on Aug. 28, 2025.
Lead AP Leah Smith told trustees the school held a spring showcase that involved 496 students across 18 class periods and featured 164 student projects. She said a second cohort has enrolled nine additional teachers, bringing the program to 15 instructors, and that the Buck Institute will bring PBL training to campus in October.
Students gave first-person accounts of the work. "PBL helped me feel more connected and in the moment with what we were learning," said Alex Hampton, student body president, who said the experience ignited his interest in civic engagement and helped shape his college plans. Senior class president Addison Lazari said the projects taught collaboration and compromise, and senior Raina Lopez said the process built critical thinking, social skills and community connections. "Out of all my traditional learning experiences, this project measures greater than any," she said.
Board members congratulated the students and staff. Trustees urged the community to attend the November showcase and thanked Mr. Manley and other staff who supported the program. Trustees also noted that student projects included community outreach such as surveys, films and presentations that connected students with local leaders.
The board did not take action on the presentation. Staff said the district will host the Buck Institute training in October and hold the next showcase in November, with both cohorts presenting in March.
