The Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District has been closely monitoring the development of the New York State Education Department’s Portrait of a Graduate. The New York State Board of Regents officially adopted it last month.
This is the first of four steps planned to shift the framework of New York’s education system and create a shared understanding of the skills and knowledge students are expected to demonstrate upon high school graduation. The four steps detailed below will be carried out slowly to limit the impact on students. The statewide requirement for instruction to be aligned to the Portrait begins with students entering grade 9 during the 2029-30 school year.
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- Adopting the New York State Portrait of a Graduate: Students must demonstrate proficiency in both the Portrait of a Graduate and the NYS high school learning standards.
- Redefine Credits and Learning Experiences: Students’ learning experiences and future diploma requirements will expand the ways students can demonstrate proficiency.
- Sunset Diploma Assessment Requirements: Students may continue to use State administered exams to satisfy future diploma requirements, but they will not be required to pass Regents Exams to earn their diploma.
- Move to One Diploma: All students who satisfy future requirements will earn a NYS high school diploma. Advanced designation will become a seal or endorsement.
The collective goal is to ensure every student graduates, not only academically prepared, but equipped with the knowledge, skills, and qualities needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. This goal is already echoed in Jamesville-DeWitt’s mission and strategic plan. The district is looking forward to supporting students, staff, and family through this transition.
The State Education Department has created a Frequently Asked Questions webpage which can be used as a helpful resource. The department has also created a survey to collect feedback on the plan. You can participate in the ThoughtExchange until Sunday, Oct. 12.