After reading Lorraine Hansberry’s play, A Raisin in the Sun, students in Ms. Bourgeois sophomore English classes wrote their updated versions of what happens to a dream deferred. After compiling a thorough analysis of what the current American Dream looks like, they then began researching  various obstacles to those dreams.  In groups they then brainstormed, wrote and performed the plays.  

Students explored immigration and citizenship, access to college and navigating financial aid, and  “keeping up with the Kardashian” lifestyle and the dangers of credit card debit.  Through these plays students were able  to analyze and empathize with what it means to dream in America in 2025.

Michelin Star began as a lesson in character development for Ms. Basterace’s Advanced Acting Class. The students were tasked with creating two characters, crafting their backstories, and exploring their motivations and limitations. Inspired by these characters and their dreams, the students collaborated to write a three-act play that follows Freddy, a football player and aspiring cellist, and Ms. Smith, a baker-turned-English teacher, as they each find the courage to pursue their dreams.

The process included a table read followed by critical feedback and discussion. The class then revised the play and began rehearsals. 

This student-driven project was performed for teachers and selected students for an in-school performance on Friday, December 13.

The PBL Capstone Class is the  culminating course for students enrolled in the Changemaker Academy. The capstone provides an opportunity for students to integrate, apply and further their knowledge and skills acquired throughout their high school career.The purpose of the Capstone Project is to give students an opportunity to choose an area of study, propose a question to investigate, conduct research through a variety of avenues, create a project for an authentic audience and present findings to a review committee of school and community members. Each student needs to address a challenging issue that will stretch his/her intellectual and personal growth. The chosen project should impact the Waltham community in a meaningful way. To view thier final presentations, click here.