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Following a thoughtful and comprehensive presentation and discussion at this morning’s Board of Regents meeting, the Board moved to officially adopt the updated Portrait of a Graduate as presented by the Department.

The Department is energized by the Board of Regents’ enthusiastic support for the finalized version of the Portrait of a Graduate, which has been informed by extensive stakeholder feedback, thorough review of relevant research, evidence-based practices, and a review of similar work conducted by school districts and other states.

The Portrait of a Graduate serves as a forward-looking framework, where academic excellence intersects with the demands of a dynamic, rapidly changing world. It reflects our commitment to preparing students not only for college and careers, but for life as engaged, thoughtful citizens.

In 2019, the µç³µÎÞÂë State Board of Regents and Education Department launched the Graduation µç³µÎÞÂë Initiative to explore what a µç³µÎÞÂë State diploma should signify to ensure educational excellence and equity for all students. Building on the Regents’ and Department’s shared commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and with a foundation rooted strongly in theÌýCulturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework, the initiative was developed to: (1) advance equity in µç³µÎÞÂë State’s public education systems, and (2) ensure that all µç³µÎÞÂë students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in school and after they graduate.

In November 2023, the Blue Ribbon Commission presented itsÌýrecommendationsÌýfor achieving these goals. In November 2024, the Department presented the NY Inspires Plan, including a timeline for implementing the Commission’s recommendations. This plan included the adoption of a µç³µÎÞÂë State Portrait of a Graduate.

Additional information about the Graduation µç³µÎÞÂë initiative can be found on theÌýDepartment’s Graduation µç³µÎÞÂë website.