Inquiry Showcase Projects

Showcase

Space for Limitless Potential

A Sampling of Completed Student Inquiry Projects

At Indi-ED, we’re incredibly fortunate to have the flexibility and autonomy to create a unique learning environment. Each year, our  talented teachers design a curriculum that not only meets state, national, gifted, and above-grade-level  standards but also integrates relevant and engaging content. What truly sets us apart is our ability to seize new opportunities as they arise, enriching our students’ experiences with dynamic, real-world learning moments. Not just once a quarter if they’re lucky, but every single day.

Environmental Stewards - Following Their Lead

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students
After collecting marine debris for an art project, one student asked, "Why stop here?" This sparked a larger commitment, leading to a partnership with Keep Pinellas Beautiful (KPB).
a panel of students sits on stage
The students expanded their efforts, clearing invasive species and removing over a ton of trash.
two students look excited next to the abc Action News logo
Their work earned a community award and national attention through NPR, which eventually led to an international collaboration with the Cayman Islands.
A girl looks at a person dressed up like a turtle
They chose sea turtles as their focus, launched a Sea Turtle Festival, and even exchanged visits with the Cayman Islands to share knowledge.
The students' passion culminated in the creation of the first Youth Environmental Summit (YES), where they shared their experiences and met renowned conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall.
a student explains something to two adults
Their journey demonstrates the power of letting students follow their passions.
two girls smiling
By encouraging them to take ownership of their interests, they engaged in real-world projects that extended beyond the classroom, unlocking deeper levels of learning and developing skills that will continue to make an impact.
The Indi-ED student-led Totally Tubular Turtle Team and visiting students from three schools in the Cayman Islands worked together to power the 2024 Turtle Festival.
The festival provided a fun hands-on way to teach our community more about sea turtles and the habitat that supports them.
students present information at tables at a festival
By starting with a simple cleanup and encouraging them to take ownership of their ideas, they were able to engage in meaningful, real-world projects that extended far beyond the classroom.
Indi-ED students pose by the ocean
When kids are given the freedom to pursue what excites them, they unlock deeper levels of learning and develop skills that leave a lasting impact on both their communities and themselves.

Aviation, Taking Big Swings, and Continued Inspiration

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During the Innovation Unit amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, one student, Frankie, took his learning to new heights—literally.
Interested in aviation as a potential career, he set his sights on a bold project, aiming to explore the cutting-edge field of electric aviation.
Rather than limiting himself to typical academic resources, Frankie took a big swing and secured an interview with the CEO of MagniX, a company leading the future of electric aviation.
His preparedness, thoughtful questions, and genuine curiosity impressed the CEO, so much so that he was invited to stop by for a visit if ever in the area.
The following summer, Frankie and his family traveled to Seattle, and the opportunity came to life. He was treated to a personal tour of the MagniX facility, where he had an in-person meeting with the CEO and was given access to see proprietary inventions and innovations firsthand.
This unique experience went far beyond the typical academic content expected of someone his age.
Frankie’s drive and ability to engage with higher-level material not only broadened his understanding of aviation but also fueled his passion for learning.
This story underscores how students, when given the opportunity and encouragement, can tackle content far above their traditional grade level.
By pursuing interests with determination, they can gain access to real-world knowledge and experiences that inspire them to continue learning.
Frankie’s journey is a testament to how engaging with challenging, high-level material can open doors to unexpected opportunities and deepen one’s commitment to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

Construction & Collaboration

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Two middle school students, passionate about construction and engineering, transformed a simple idea into an ambitious project that combined creativity, collaboration, and leadership.
Initially accustomed to working on individual projects, they joined forces in a collaboration unit to take on a challenge that would stretch their skills and imaginations.
Together, they brainstormed the concept of building a treehouse, but this wouldn’t be just any treehouse—it would become a fully realized architectural project.
The pair began by conducting interviews to hire a team, researching effective design principles, and developing detailed blueprints and CAD drawings.
They then took their vision a step further by raising the funds necessary to purchase materials, showing remarkable initiative and organizational skills.
Throughout the project, they collaborated with construction professionals and managed their team on-site, ensuring that every phase of the build was executed to plan.
The final product was a sturdy, beautifully designed treehouse that not only stood the test of time but also weathered a Level 3 hurricane.
Their project didn’t stop at functionality; they also added creative touches, such as commissioning a student mural to enhance the aesthetic of the treehouse.
What started as an idea blossomed into a community-driven effort that combined engineering, design, and artistry, leaving behind a lasting structure that stands as a testament to their determination and vision. Through this process, the two young women demonstrated how collaboration can amplify individual talents and create something far greater than the sum of its parts.
One of the students was offered a full ride to her #1 college choice, Wentworth University in Boston, for their Construction Management Program.

Leadership & Resiliency

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Indi-ED students posing next to the leadership challenge logo
A small group of students, driven by their passion for challenging themselves, set out to participate in a leadership competition, but they soon realized they could do more than compete—they could create their own competition.
students sitting at a table holding up papers and smiling
With this ambitious goal in mind, they dove into extensive training and preparation, refining their leadership skills while developing a blueprint for an event they would later bring back to their community.
They partnered with local organizations, pitching their idea at meetings and community presentations, and gaining support to turn their vision into reality.
a student standing on stage giving a presentation
Together, they designed the event’s logistics, secured sponsors, and recruited competitors, ready to pilot their unique leadership competition.
Indi-ED students smiling
The students tested their concept in key venues, including the Chamber of Commerce, the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP), and The Greenhouse, a local business development center.
students standing at podiums
With each successful pilot, their confidence grew, and they set their sights on a larger goal—hosting a community-wide leadership event at Tropicana Field.
Indi-ED students smiling outside next to a pop-up tent
Everything was in place for a major launch, but then COVID-19 hit, bringing their plans to an abrupt halt.
Indi-ED students posing in a group photo
Despite the setback, their commitment to the project remained strong.
students sitting across the table from adult interviewers
Not long after, a second group of students attended a leadership competition in Atlanta, continuing the work that the original group had started.
students wearing business attire smiling
Armed with fresh ideas and renewed energy, they are now ready to complete what their predecessors began, bringing the community-wide event to life.
a student talks to a business professional
Their journey showcases not only their leadership skills but also their resilience and determination to adapt and carry forward a shared vision in the face of challenges.

Environmental Stewards - Following Their Lead

Visual Portfolio, Posts & Image Gallery for WordPress
students
After collecting marine debris for an art project, one student asked, "Why stop here?" This sparked a larger commitment, leading to a partnership with Keep Pinellas Beautiful (KPB).
a panel of students sits on stage
The students expanded their efforts, clearing invasive species and removing over a ton of trash.
two students look excited next to the abc Action News logo
Their work earned a community award and national attention through NPR, which eventually led to an international collaboration with the Cayman Islands.
A girl looks at a person dressed up like a turtle
They chose sea turtles as their focus, launched a Sea Turtle Festival, and even exchanged visits with the Cayman Islands to share knowledge.
The students' passion culminated in the creation of the first Youth Environmental Summit (YES), where they shared their experiences and met renowned conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall.
a student explains something to two adults
Their journey demonstrates the power of letting students follow their passions.
two girls smiling
By encouraging them to take ownership of their interests, they engaged in real-world projects that extended beyond the classroom, unlocking deeper levels of learning and developing skills that will continue to make an impact.
The Indi-ED student-led Totally Tubular Turtle Team and visiting students from three schools in the Cayman Islands worked together to power the 2024 Turtle Festival.
The festival provided a fun hands-on way to teach our community more about sea turtles and the habitat that supports them.
students present information at tables at a festival
By starting with a simple cleanup and encouraging them to take ownership of their ideas, they were able to engage in meaningful, real-world projects that extended far beyond the classroom.
Indi-ED students pose by the ocean
When kids are given the freedom to pursue what excites them, they unlock deeper levels of learning and develop skills that leave a lasting impact on both their communities and themselves.

Aviation, Taking Big Swings, and Continued Inspiration

Visual Portfolio, Posts & Image Gallery for WordPress
During the Innovation Unit amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, one student, Frankie, took his learning to new heights—literally.
Interested in aviation as a potential career, he set his sights on a bold project, aiming to explore the cutting-edge field of electric aviation.
Rather than limiting himself to typical academic resources, Frankie took a big swing and secured an interview with the CEO of MagniX, a company leading the future of electric aviation.
His preparedness, thoughtful questions, and genuine curiosity impressed the CEO, so much so that he was invited to stop by for a visit if ever in the area.
The following summer, Frankie and his family traveled to Seattle, and the opportunity came to life. He was treated to a personal tour of the MagniX facility, where he had an in-person meeting with the CEO and was given access to see proprietary inventions and innovations firsthand.
This unique experience went far beyond the typical academic content expected of someone his age.
Frankie’s drive and ability to engage with higher-level material not only broadened his understanding of aviation but also fueled his passion for learning.
This story underscores how students, when given the opportunity and encouragement, can tackle content far above their traditional grade level.
By pursuing interests with determination, they can gain access to real-world knowledge and experiences that inspire them to continue learning.
Frankie’s journey is a testament to how engaging with challenging, high-level material can open doors to unexpected opportunities and deepen one’s commitment to a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

Construction & Collaboration

Visual Portfolio, Posts & Image Gallery for WordPress
Two middle school students, passionate about construction and engineering, transformed a simple idea into an ambitious project that combined creativity, collaboration, and leadership.
Initially accustomed to working on individual projects, they joined forces in a collaboration unit to take on a challenge that would stretch their skills and imaginations.
Together, they brainstormed the concept of building a treehouse, but this wouldn’t be just any treehouse—it would become a fully realized architectural project.
The pair began by conducting interviews to hire a team, researching effective design principles, and developing detailed blueprints and CAD drawings.
They then took their vision a step further by raising the funds necessary to purchase materials, showing remarkable initiative and organizational skills.
Throughout the project, they collaborated with construction professionals and managed their team on-site, ensuring that every phase of the build was executed to plan.
The final product was a sturdy, beautifully designed treehouse that not only stood the test of time but also weathered a Level 3 hurricane.
Their project didn’t stop at functionality; they also added creative touches, such as commissioning a student mural to enhance the aesthetic of the treehouse.
What started as an idea blossomed into a community-driven effort that combined engineering, design, and artistry, leaving behind a lasting structure that stands as a testament to their determination and vision. Through this process, the two young women demonstrated how collaboration can amplify individual talents and create something far greater than the sum of its parts.
One of the students was offered a full ride to her #1 college choice, Wentworth University in Boston, for their Construction Management Program.

LEADERSHIP & RESILIENCY

Visual Portfolio, Posts & Image Gallery for WordPress
Indi-ED students posing next to the leadership challenge logo
A small group of students, driven by their passion for challenging themselves, set out to participate in a leadership competition, but they soon realized they could do more than compete—they could create their own competition.
students sitting at a table holding up papers and smiling
With this ambitious goal in mind, they dove into extensive training and preparation, refining their leadership skills while developing a blueprint for an event they would later bring back to their community.
They partnered with local organizations, pitching their idea at meetings and community presentations, and gaining support to turn their vision into reality.
a student standing on stage giving a presentation
Together, they designed the event’s logistics, secured sponsors, and recruited competitors, ready to pilot their unique leadership competition.
Indi-ED students smiling
The students tested their concept in key venues, including the Chamber of Commerce, the University of South Florida St. Petersburg (USFSP), and The Greenhouse, a local business development center.
students standing at podiums
With each successful pilot, their confidence grew, and they set their sights on a larger goal—hosting a community-wide leadership event at Tropicana Field.
Indi-ED students smiling outside next to a pop-up tent
Everything was in place for a major launch, but then COVID-19 hit, bringing their plans to an abrupt halt.
Indi-ED students posing in a group photo
Despite the setback, their commitment to the project remained strong.
students sitting across the table from adult interviewers
Not long after, a second group of students attended a leadership competition in Atlanta, continuing the work that the original group had started.
students wearing business attire smiling
Armed with fresh ideas and renewed energy, they are now ready to complete what their predecessors began, bringing the community-wide event to life.
a student talks to a business professional
Their journey showcases not only their leadership skills but also their resilience and determination to adapt and carry forward a shared vision in the face of challenges.
Group Project Topic: Local History

21st Century Skill Theme: Leadership & Collaboration

This cohort decided to dive deeper into a topic that they wanted to learn more about, our local history. They took the time to research on their own but also went above and beyond to set up their own local history tour, an architectural walking tour, a history tour via horse and carriage, and one student even got the entire cohort an interview with the Mayor.

They then went on to create an interactive experience for their Showcase where they put on interactive skits as important members from our city’s history, created timelines and discussions around the small details that they learned about our city, transformed rooms to replicated the architectural components they learned about, and put on an engaging presentation to demonstrate their understanding.

That is real socializing.

Individual Project Topic: Supporting Pet Pal Rescue

21st Century Skill Theme: Innovation & Creativity

Ria has always loved animals. She saves money every year to donate to her favorite local charity, Pet Pal Rescue.

For her third inquiry project, she wanted to compound on her preexisting passion. Under the theme of innovation, Ria set on a path to come up with an easier way for people to donate. Think the Little Lending Libraries you see around town, but for donations that would go to her favorite charity.

Ria took the time to draw blue prints, create multiple prototypes, and then shared her very personal story in a presentation that took our breath away.

She not only collected supplies and donations to bring when she interviewed the founder of Pet Pal Rescue and pitched her idea, but also arranged for one of their employees and one of their adoptable furry friends to join her at her final presentation.

Ria displays determination and perseverance at all times. This was simply another example of how kids can takes things to the next level if you allow them to.

Individual Project Topic: Music

21st Century Skill Theme: Leadership & Initiative

Ben’s inquiry projects have almost always incorporated music as that’s his passion.

He’s worked to become a natural on stage and when his guitar is with him, he always puts on an impressive show. What’s most impressive is to watch how he’s built off of his own ideas.

His first showcase he pushed himself to learn a challenging song. He set up an interview of his own and met with someone who started his own recording studio and got to play on a piano that John Legend played on.

For his next showcase he chose to take a look at music through the lens of responsibility and leadership.

Then last year challenged himself again and collaborated with an actual musician, Ted from Passafire, to record his first original song.

Some of our kids benefit from being able to explore a variety of ideas. But some of them are fully aware of their life’s path and are simply building up products for their portfolio or anything that may help them in their futures.

Collaborative Project Topic: Videography

21st Century Skill Theme: Collaboration

Alex and Ani are a sibling set that came to Indi-ED strong in their values and understanding of self.

Alex is an accomplished artist and Ani is an accomplished musician. Both young ladies are driven but took advantage of Indi-ED’s inquiry cycle to collaborate further and put into play ideas that they have been considering for a while.

For Ani’s first showcase, she began working on a musical that she had the idea to write for quite some time. Upon the completion of the first unit, she composed and shared an original song from the first act of the musical.

For our second unit, Alex decided to take Ani’s original song and shoot a music video for it. She storyboarded, shot, edited, and owned every aspect from start to finish.

Check out our YouTube page for the completion of the video as they are keeping it private until they share it at our Showcase.

Cross Cohort Project Topic: Gardening

21st Century Skill Theme: Responsibility & Sustainability

After teaching a biology unit the year prior and hearing about how much our students enjoyed it, we decided to take it even further the following year.

One set of students investigated chemistry through aquaponics while partnering with a local aquaponics business. While another set of students investigated biology through traditional gardening at a local community garden.

Each cohort investigated complex content while having a real life, hands on experience to help deepen understanding. Which means they had to problem solve when failures arose but were also able to literally reap the benefits of what they sowed.

At the end of the unit, they prepared an entire family meal from their harvests and were serendipitously invited to be background extras on the set of an actual Hallmark movie where they played school children beginning a community garden.

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Indi-ED student on a boat
Indi-ED student wearing protective eyewear

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