Can I start acquiring my hours before the start of the Capstone?
No, all of the required hours must be done during the span of the Capstone time. This is from the day of the Capstone Induction Service Project until the day of the Capstone community Expo. (These dates vary from year to year, please see the schedule page for more details.)
If I participate in Viking Capstone, do I still need to take an end of course exam?
Capstone and end of course exams are separate entities. Please check with your teachers about all final exams and tests.
Is there a schedule I have to follow to get my hours?
There is no set schedule. You must, however, submit a work/volunteer schedule (approved and signed) by both your community and staff mentors to the Viking Capstone team prior to the start of capstone. Please check the schedule page for the exact date.
Who do I contact if an extenuating circumstance makes me late to or absent from my host site?
You must contact your community mentor immediately. Makeup hours should be arranged that day. Should tardiness or absences become chronic, the Viking Capstone has the right to revoke your eligibility.
Can I be related to my community or school mentor?
No, we prefer you not be related to any of your mentors.
Can I be paid for volunteering or working.
No, you cannot be compensated in anyway for your work and time during the capstone.
Can a teacher require that I return to class during my Capstone experience?
Yes. If a teacher requests your return, you must honor that request.
If I participate, will I also be excused from Monroe Tech, Academy of Science, classes at other high schools, sports, or any other extra-curricular activity in which I participate?
No. The Viking Capstone only excuses you from academic classes at Loudoun Valley High School. Students taking classes at Monroe Tech or Academy of Science only have to complete half of the required hours for the project.
What if my original Capstone request is denied?
If your original idea is denied, the Viking Capstone team will work with you and your school mentor to formulate a new one.
Where should I hand in all forms associated with the Capstone?
All forms should be submitted electronically to Schoology with the exception of your signed permission forms which should be completed through permission click.
If I am a Junior that is graduating, can I still do a capstone?
Possibly, If you are considered a "double promote," which is a junior taking senior classes and graduating early, you must inform your teachers of your status. Teachers have the right to request you remain in class if you in a junior class.
If I have not passed an SOL or have not taken a required SOL for graduation, may I participate in Capstone?
You must have completed all graduation requirements prior to the beginning of Capstone. Your graduation takes priority over the Capstone experience.
May I do my Capstone project in a foreign country or a different state?
No, Loudoun County Public School cannot assume responsibility for international travel. You must stay with in the local DMV area. Your Capstone should take place in Loudoun.
May my school mentor also be my community mentor?
Yes, if you are working directly with an Loudoun Valley High School staff member on your project they may serve as both your school mentor and community mentor.