The Fayetteville-Manlius District Curriculum Council has been working behind the scenes to develop a comprehensive K-12 Portrait of a Learner that is aligned with the New York State Education Department’s Portrait of a Graduate.
The Portrait of a Graduate is the state Education Department’s comprehensive vision to slowly transform public education by the 2029-2030 school year. The framework defines the skills and dispositions students should be expected to demonstrate to earn a diploma. It emphasizes six interconnected attributes like being academically prepared, an effective communicator, and a critical thinker.
The changes will be phased-in to limit the impact on students and staff. At this time, current graduation requirements and the three-tiered diploma system are still in effect. Current fifth graders will be the first class of students required to demonstrate proficiency in the state’s new graduation standards. Eventually, the state will move towards a single diploma. Advanced designations in the form of seals or endorsements will also be available, allowing students to personalize their school experience and graduation credentials.
Under the plan, traditional Regents exams and +1 Pathway Assessments will no longer be required for graduation. This doesn’t mean Regents exams are disappearing, but instead, students will have the option to demonstrate proficiency through multiple means, including portfolios and locally developed assessments. Evaluations intended to meet federal accountability requirements will still be administered.
f-m’S aPPROACH
The Fayetteville-Manlius District Curriculum Council has taken a close look at this framework and developed the K-12 Portrait of a Learner, which aligns with the district’s mission, vision, and strategic plan. The council is also identifying curriculum, instruction, and assessment areas across the district that already align with the framework.
“One thing that stood out to us was the importance of starting the process early. These skills need to be taught as early as Kindergarten,” said F-M Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Kathryn Daughton. “The council felt it was important to focus on a student’s entire learning experience from K-12. We can weave the attributes into classroom lessons and experiences at every level of learning.”
WHAT IS PORTRAIT OF A LEARNER?
The Fayetteville-Manlius Portrait of a Learner reflects the district’s vision to inspire students and promote personal success. In addition to academic excellence, all students should acquire and build the skills needed to succeed beyond their time with us. Our learners are critical thinkers who engage in authentic learning experiences, demonstrating civic responsibility while embracing innovative approaches to complex challenges. They are effective communicators who foster meaningful relationships and collaborate respectfully with diverse peers, honoring and affirming the varied identities and experiences within our community. F-M learners exhibit resilience and maintain overall wellness as they develop the skills to become self-directed, lifelong learners. They actively participate in service learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge to community impact, embodying our commitment to continuous improvement. Each graduate emerges prepared not only for future academic and career pursuits but as responsible citizens who contribute positively to our ever-changing world while upholding the values of our school community.
F-M High School student Kira Coleman is working with administrators to design visual elements that are easily recognizable and support the district’s Portrait of a Learner.
WHAT’S NEXT
F-M’s Portrait of a Learner was presented to staff during the Superintendent’s Conference Day on March 20. It was also reviewed during the last Parent Council meeting on March 25.
The New York State Education Department is expected to transition to an implementation phase this summer. That involves prioritizing learning standards and providing more rubric and measurement guidance.
The district’s Curriculum Council is reviewing newly released financial literacy materials from the state. Financial literacy and climate education instruction will be required with a phased rollout starting in the 2026–27 school year for some grades. The inclusion of both topics can be part of stand-alone classes, Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes, or embedded in courses. The district already offers these options and is well prepared to meet the requirement.
The district is ready to support students, staff, and families through this transition and wants all stakeholders to feel informed during the process. Some helpful resources are available through the State Education Department like “Need-to-Know” documents. They provide role-specific guidance for students, staff, parents, and others.