Purpose in Action: Eighth Grade Students Lead with Heart Through MYP Community Projects
Before a single word was spoken or a display board explored, one thing was clear: this was not just a showcase of projects, but a room filled with purpose. The Carrollwood Day School Student Union became a place where you could see how curiosity turns into compassion and what happens when learning is guided by heart and the courage to act.
On January 23, the Carrollwood Day School Student Union came alive as our eighth grade students stepped into the spotlight to share their MYP Community Projects. The room buzzed with conversation, curiosity, and pride as over 50 presentations filled the space, each one a reflection of what it means to be a CDS student. Leading with character. Acting with empathy. Choosing to care deeply and do something about it.
The MYP Community Project is more than an academic requirement. It is a moment where learning meets lived experience. Students are asked to identify a need, engage with their community, and reflect thoughtfully on both the process and the outcome. In doing so, they develop skills that will carry them far beyond middle school. Collaboration. Self reflection. Communication. A sense of responsibility to the world around them. Under the guidance of MYP Coordinator Sabrina McCartly, Director of Community Engagement and Belonging Shelly Hollingsworth, and Design Tech instructors Jason Ault and Andre Accoo, students transformed ideas into action.
Throughout the fair, students stood proudly beside their display boards, eager not just to explain what they created, but why it mattered. They spoke with confidence about the needs they uncovered and the steps they took to address them. Each project was infused with personal interest and a growing awareness that meaningful change often starts small.
- For Donald B., that change began with a desire to help animals. He partnered with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay with an initial goal of collecting dog and cat food. What followed exceeded anything he imagined. In addition to food and treats, Donald collected pet supplies and raised an extra $350 for the organization. Along the way, he learned how the Humane Society raises and manages funds, developed interviewing skills, and discovered the power of asking questions. Inspired by what he learned, he now plans to create a fundraising site to continue supporting their mission.
- That same organization became the focus for Cassandra D. and Taylor F. through their project Whiskers to Homes. Their work combined research, creativity, and outreach as they raised $306, collected essential cat supplies, volunteered at PetSmart, and used TikTok to spread awareness. By learning how to effectively ask for donations and connect with an audience, they surpassed their original goal and saw firsthand how advocacy can amplify impact.
- Service took a different form for Maya M., Olivia F., and Claire M., whose project Basket for the Brave honored local firefighters. Wanting to show appreciation for those who serve our community every day, they set up a table outside Lowe’s and invited passersby to donate. The result was a thoughtfully curated appreciation basket delivered to firefighters at Station 20, filled with items to support them through long and exhausting shifts. Their project was rooted in gratitude and a genuine desire to give back.
- Avery H. focused her efforts on marine life through Saving Sea Life: One Donation at a Time. Drawn to the mission of Clearwater Marine Aquarium and its commitment to rehabilitation, conservation, and research, Avery hosted three bake sales, two in her neighborhood and one on campus. She even donated extra baked goods to delivery drivers in her community. Through careful planning, organization, and communication, Avery raised $429, far exceeding her goal. Her dedication led to a private tour of the aquarium, where she personally donated the funds and reflected on how much of a difference one student can make.
- Faith L., Abigail J., and Ifah A. turned their attention to advocacy with Domestic Violence: Action for Awareness. Their project supported The Spring of Tampa Bay, an organization that provides safety and stability for survivors of domestic abuse. Through their efforts, they raised awareness while collecting clothing, food, hygiene products, and monetary donations. Their work highlighted the importance of compassion and community support in addressing difficult but vital issues.
- Global impact came into focus for Layla W. and Gabriella M. with Hearts for Jamaica. Moved by the devastation caused by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa in October 2025, they worked to support families who lost their homes and belongings. By collecting more than 200 items including clothing, books, and school supplies, they partnered with United Hands of Hope Ministry to ensure the donations would reach those in need. Their project reminded us that empathy knows no borders.
- For Tyson B., giving back was deeply personal. Through Tampa Bay: Together Making a Difference, he supported his family’s foundation, the Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation's SOUL Food Market. Tyson helped coordinate grocery shopping events for families during Thanksgiving and Christmas, raised funds, gathered food, and volunteered his time. Reflecting on the experience, he shared how leadership, communication, and teamwork come alive when a community comes together to support one another.
- Positivity and mindfulness were at the heart of Voices of Hope, led by Yara S., Julnar A., and Ariana D. Their goal was to spread encouragement throughout the middle school and beyond, helping students approach challenges with a growth mindset. They expanded their reach to the elementary school, visiting a second grade class to share a positivity presentation. Through posters across campus and the creation of the Positivity Podcast on Spotify, they found creative ways to uplift others and extend their message to a wider audience.
What made the Community Project Fair truly inspiring was not just the range of topics, but the heart behind every single one. These were not abstract problems pulled from a textbook. They were real issues that students cared about deeply. From animal welfare and environmental conservation to advocacy, service, and kindness, each project reflected a commitment to making a difference.
At Carrollwood Day School, we believe education and character grow best side by side. On this day, that belief was on full display. Through their Community Projects, our eighth grade students learned how to think critically, act with empathy, and reflect on the impact of their work. More importantly, they discovered that even at a young age, their voices matter and their actions can create change. That lesson will stay with them long after middle school, shaping the way they engage with the world for years to come.
Click HERE to see photos of the day and all of the Community Project boards.
