Twice a year, at the beginning of each semester, students participate in a school-wide project that lasts for two to three weeks. The fall project always has a central focus for inquiry, such as "What makes a good museum?" Or "What is good for kids?" Or, "Do elections matter?"

Students and staff meet in small groups, making good use of the city, to explore issues related to the larger question. The project culminates with each group presenting what they have learned or created before the whole school.

The spring project includes a broader spread of activities and usually includes a musical production (acting, singing, dancing, set design, costumes), other art and photography workshops, and a variety of other choices. This has included, for example, an in-depth study of a sport, a sociological study of high school lunchrooms, and an exploration of fashion’s influence on gender identity. Students receive credits for their work during the projects.