STA Capstone

The St. Teresas’s Academy Capstone is an extended, self-guided research project in which students explore a question that is important to them. It builds on skills learned over four years — curiosity, research, problem solving and communication — and reinforces the capabilities and qualities outlined in the STA Portrait of a Graduate. Students take the lead on their capstone projects, exploring topics from various perspectives such as historical, philosophical and scientific, and interviewing experts and community members to gain deeper insight. Many tackle real-world challenges, pursuing creative solutions even when they’re complex or unconventional, and some conduct fieldwork to see their ideas in action. They share their findings in both academic and creative ways, blending quantitative and qualitative concepts. The experience culminates in a TED Talk-style symposium where students present to the STA community. More than just a research project, the STA Capstone inspires growth and prepares young women to become thoughtful, responsible leaders ready to make a significant impact.


Driven by Curiosity

The STA Capstone is designed to nurture genuine curiosity by giving students the freedom to pursue topics that truly interest them — whether they have always been inquisitive or are rediscovering their sense of wonder.

What are you curious about?

What seems relevant in the world today?

What previous project would you like to return to for more in-depth research?

What career are you considering?


Essential Student Questions

By supporting diverse approaches and allowing room for creativity, the capstone helps students experience what meaningful learning looks like: engaging, personal, and driven by a desire to understand the world more deeply.

How does technology use affect children’s cognitive development?

Isabella Quintanilla

Would your quality of life be better without modern electronics?

Jo Marshall

How does academic pressure in high school affect students?

Madison Hardley

What is hormone syncing and how does it change women’s lives?

Mary Myers

In what ways does deportation impact the daily lives and emotional well-being of immigrants and their families?

Jocelyn Tovar-Cubias

How is childhood trauma defined and explained in psychological and neurological contexts?

Aspen Piggy


Structured for Innovation

Through research, writing and presentation, students learn to define problems, generate solutions and refine their ideas. This approach turns learning into an active, creative process, showing how knowledge can be applied to real world challenges.


Contact Us

For more information and questions pertaining to Capstone.

Kelly Finn

Director of Innovation & Advanced Interdisciplinary Education