IMHO, I don't think school projects are the best way to add value to Hive. They are good way to try things out,the process of creating and implementing.
Since your pupils don't possess the coding skills I might suggest a type of project that don't really require too much coding skills and can be done manually at first.
Hive needs patronite/Patreon, kickstarter and charity fundraising. A project that will get more content creators on board. In addition it can host a place for charities providing an support in reaching curators and donors via Hive.
I think the idea behind Patreon and Kickstarter is widely known so no further explanation,but the costs of it are not know and they are major. Hive can be far more cheaper, safer (artist has the keys to the wallet). This project might also show newcomers how to spend Hive in real life and fulfil all legal obligations in your country.
This would require setting up a community, website might be a next step but require good deal coding skills to connect it with Hive.
This service at a basic level might simply work using Hive. My ideal situation would be if this project would be non-profit with cost transparency policy. Non-profit does not mean those behind it can't receive remuneration, it does not mean project can't be using marketing.