Math teacher Suazzane Padgett brought energy and excitement to the end of the school year by organizing a Senior Scavenger Hunt for her Reasoning and Sense Making classes. Designed as both a celebration and a collaborative activity, the event encouraged students to explore their school in a new and memorable way before graduation.

Padgett explained that the idea behind the scavenger hunt was to give seniors a meaningful send off while also promoting teamwork.

 “I decided to do the Senior Scavenger Hunt for the Reasoning and Sense Making classes because the seniors are graduating and this is a time for them to ‘hunt’ for items around the school,” she said. “This is a fun way for students to work together in groups.”

Students were tasked with finding specific items or completing challenges around campus, often documenting their progress through photos. The activity pushed them out of the classroom and into shared spaces they might not usually notice. According to Padgett, this shift in the environment plays an important role.

The scavenger hunt has become something of a tradition in Padgett’s classes.

“This is my second year doing this. I had seniors last year and this year. I use this as an end of the year celebration for the students,” she said.

She also noted that the project doesn’t end once the hunt is over. Students are required to compile their photos into a slideshow presentation, which is graded based on provided guidelines. 

“The students then have to put together a slideshow and I show some (the ones that the students want to show),” Padgett added.

The event has also left a lasting impression on past participants. Padgett shared that former students have told her they still have the photos they took during the scavenger hunt and remember the experience fondly. Staff members across campus also join in the fun. 

“I know that the administrators, CSM’s and support staff love getting pictures with the students,” she said.

For many seniors, the scavenger hunt offers a chance to slow down and appreciate their surroundings before moving on.

Senior Ethyn Perchez reflected on his experience, saying, “I had fun going around the school looking for different items, it made me notice things around the school I’ve never noticed.”

By blending creativity, collaboration, and reflection, Padgett’s scavenger hunt provides seniors with a memorable way to close out their final year.