On Friday, May 31, the Commons was full of jittery sophomores waiting to present their exhibits to the public. Judges walked alongside volunteers around including Dr. Duran and Dr. Mann from Syphax. Interactive activities included making yogurt cups, driving robots, and even getting a haircut, while volunteer judges and guests from the ACC community learned from the sophomores.

What was the keystone goal? To teach the community how we can all live our best lives by using skills sophomores have learned at ACC this year.

A lot of work went on behind the scenes to bring this colossal project to life. Students had three weeks to design and manifest their ideas based on the students’ interests in topics ranging from finances, sociology, occupations, physical health, and the environment.

After collaborative research and design phase, students presented their digital designs to “sharks”, a panel of three judges, to get feedback on their presentations. Using this critique, they would turn these presentations into real-life tri-fold boards. The week leading up to the fair, Ms. McFarlane’s and Mr. Hines’ room was filled with students and the sounds of paper cutters and chattering as students came to school early to work on their Best Life Fair projects. Teams managed to paint cardboard ,and although inevitable mistakes were made, they were also rectified with teamwork and patience.

Students worked diligently to create colorful and educational boards. Next, they were tasked with making an interactive activity to demonstrate their lesson, making it engaging to the audience. Finally, the big day, May 31, arrived. Students congregated in the Commons to present to judges, guests from APS leadership, and many of ACC’s teachers and students.

In the end, the Best Life Fair bettered the lives of ACC attendees and Arlington as a whole by educating them on problems and innovations in today’s society. In conclusion, our Keystone symbolizes the power of collaborative learning and engagement. It has paved a strong foundation for educational efforts at ACC, inspiring people to explore, learn, and make a difference.