Portrait of the Newtown Graduate

What is the Portrait of a Graduate?

The Portrait of a Graduate is our district’s collective vision for student success. While academic excellence remains at our core, we recognize that today’s world requires more than just content knowledge. Developed with input from our community, this framework identifies the essential "durable skills"—such as critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and adaptability—that we promise to foster in every student from Kindergarten through graduation. It serves as our "North Star," ensuring that every lesson and activity helps students become well-rounded, empathetic, and future-ready citizens.

Why it Matters?

In a global economy and an era of rapid technological change, a traditional diploma is no longer enough. The Portrait of a Graduate ensures that your child is not just "eligible" for college or a career, but truly prepared for them. By weaving these competencies into our daily curriculum, we empower students to solve complex problems, work effectively in diverse teams, and navigate the challenges of adulthood with resilience. This approach shifts the focus from "what" students are learning to "who" they are becoming, providing a personalized roadmap that honors each student’s unique strengths and aspirations.