Do not open until 2026! Those are the instructions for the students in Melanie Erice-Cortorreal’s Grade 9 English class. During the final weeks of their first year in high school, the students created individual time capsules to be opened on their last day of their senior year in May 2026.
Over several class periods, students were given writing assignments as the main content for their time capsules. In addition, the students were encouraged to include photos and captions as part of their memories of this time, and they decorated the envelopes in which their letters will be safely kept for the next three years
“We were given prompts in class, like what was your favorite movie, your favorite TV shows, and your goals for your future,” explained Leianna Babas ‘26. The students then wrote letters to their future selves around the different prompts, including an introductory letter explaining the purpose, and a closing letter with final reflections.
The project allowed the students much needed time to reflect on themselves and their experiences during their first year of high school, and the first year of having things back to “normal” following the pandemic.
“It was a really good project because I think it let me write about everything this year and from the past that I would want to remember – like everything memorable,” reflected Babas. “There were also some prompts where you could describe hard times you’ve been through, which I think would be really important that I could reflect on in senior year.”
When they open their time capsules just before they graduate, they will be able to see how far they have come in their journey to becoming a graduate of ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY.
“I think it’s going to be really great to reflect on my high school life and all that before I leave for college and see what my future is.”
