NYS Portrait of a Graduate

A New York State graduate will be ready to learn, grow, create, work, and contribute:

• Academically prepared
• Creative innovator
• Critical thinker
• Effective communicator
• Global citizen
• Reflective and future focused

A New York State high school graduate who is culturally responsive builds strong, respectful relationships, valuing diverse perspectives as essential to a rigorous, inclusive learning community. New York State students who embody cultural responsiveness and academic readiness -- demonstrating creativity, critical thinking, communication, reflection, and global awareness -- will be prepared to learn, grow, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. These graduates will be equipped with the interpersonal and intellectual skills needed to thrive in an interconnected, ever-evolving world.

• Academically Prepared: Demonstrates a strong foundation in the NYS learning standards and is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve success in college, careers, civic engagement, service, and life.
• Creative Innovator: Utilizes imagination, curiosity, and flexible thinking to solve problems creatively, and develop new ideas and products, while adapting to evolving circumstances and challenges.
• Critical Thinker: Analyzes information thoughtfully, evaluates evidence critically, and identifies patterns and connections between different pieces of information (across multiple content areas) to address complex issues and navigate the world with insight.
• Effective Communicator: Articulates ideas clearly and confidently through speaking, writing, and the use of different types of media for various purposes, while engaging with diverse audiences and actively listening to different perspectives.
• Global Citizen: Acts responsibly and ethically within local, global, and digital communities, employing civic knowledge, skills, and mindsets to promote global sustainability and contribute positively to a culturally diverse, democratic society
• Reflective and Future Focused: Engages in self-reflection to identify strengths and areas for growth, sets meaningful goals, uses social awareness to maintain supportive relationships, and demonstrates responsible decision-making that prioritizes social, emotional, and mental well-being.