Following a thoughtful and comprehensive presentation and discussion at the July Board of Regents meeting, the Board moved to officially adopt the New York State Portrait of a Graduate. The Department is energized by the Board of Regents’ enthusiastic support for the finalized version of the Portrait of a Graduate (“the Portrait”), 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 serves as a forward-looking framework, where academic excellence intersects with the demands of a dynamic, rapidly changing world. It reflects the Department’s commitment to preparing students not only for college and careers, but for life as engaged, thoughtful citizens.

While changes to the current diploma requirements are forthcoming, this adoption does not change the current graduation requirements. According to the Department’s implementation plan, NY Inspires, the Department plans to release additional guidance to support local implementation of the Portrait by summer 2027. While schools and districts may begin to examine their local practices in the context of the Portrait, the statewide requirement for instruction to be aligned to the portrait begins with students in the 2029 cohort (students entering grade 9 during the 2029-2030 school year).

Administrators may begin raising awareness of the New York State Portrait of a Graduate through communication about the Portrait with all stakeholders and making the portrait visible in your community. Fostering a culture of whole-child development and encouraging authentic learning experiences will also set the foundation for the Portrait’s implementation.

The Department encourages all interested parties to provide feedback on implementation of the New York State Portrait of a Graduate by participating in the ThoughtExchange discussion by October 12, 2025. Additional information about the Graduation Measures initiative can be found on the Department’s Graduation Measures website. Questions may be referred to GradMeasures@nysed.gov.