Battelle for Kids, a national, non-profit organization dedicated to realizing the power of future-ready, deep learning for every student, has recently published its seminal report, “The Future of the Portrait of a Graduate.” The comprehensive report evaluates a decade of progress in transforming education by implementing the Portrait of a Graduate framework.
The world is rapidly changing in all facets of society, including education and work. The report curates research from reputable sources to provide a state of affairs in PK-12 education and the workforce while sharing original insights from EdLeader21 Network members into the impact of this Portrait work on the school district, community, student learning, and instruction.
The report offers valuable insights and practical guidance for educators, policymakers, and community leaders committed to preparing students for a dynamic and unpredictable world.
The research highlights the importance of going beyond performance measures to promote more engaging and significant learning experiences, especially in light of two decades of extensive standardized testing.
The following are the Key insights from the report:
Catalyst for Transformation
The Portrait is a robust framework for a unified community vision, but lasting change requires a systemwide sustained effort and commitment from all stakeholders.
Student and Educator Empowerment
Engaging students and teachers in the Portrait process fosters empowerment and validates their perspectives, shaping concept-based teaching and learning where rigorous academic content and durable skills work in concert.
Durable Skills Focus
Durable skills serve as a common ground, aligning stakeholders across diverse sectors to recognize their importance.
Importance of Community Engagement
Deep community engagement and transparent communication are pivotal for successful portrait implementation, which drives support and action.
Alignment with Workforce Needs
By integrating durable skills into academic content, the Portrait aligns education with workforce demands, preparing students for diverse post-secondary pathways.
Sustainable Momentum Through Practice
Strong leadership, consistent practice, and integration of the Portrait into all aspects of the school district drive momentum and ensure long-term sustainability.
“The Future of the Portrait of a Graduate” culminates extensive research, community engagement, and practical experience. The report features contributions from key stakeholders, including the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, AASA, The School Superintendents Association, and America Succeeds. Additionally, with 70% of EdLeader21 Network member districts having implemented a Portrait, the report amplifies the voices of various district superintendents and central office leaders, offering tangible examples of real-world application and impact.
You’ll also find insights into Portraits’ planning, design, and implementation from more than a dozen nationwide districts, including rural, suburban, and urban systems. It also marks the beginning of continuous efforts. In the coming year, Battelle for Kids will lead and support initiatives to shape the future of the Portrait of a Graduate.
Expressing his thoughts on the recently released report, Mike Duncan, Ed.D., President & CEO of Battelle for Kids, said:
The relentless focus on test scores has often left students struggling to find personal relevance and joy in their education. Our new report highlights how the Portrait of a Graduate framework can reorient educational strategies to prioritize rigorous academic content and durable skills. As a former superintendent, adopting this approach in my district shifted my focus from mere test scores to infusing education with meaning and joy, emphasizing real-world applications, and fostering student independence.
About Battelle for Kids
Battelle for Kids empowers educators to prepare every student for tomorrow’s world. It partners alongside school districts, state agencies, and strategic partners to solve complex issues in education. Supported by an initial grant from Battelle Memorial Institute, the company was established in 2001 by the Ohio Business Roundtable to advance student achievement and growth in Ohio. In 2005, BFK became an independent, national not-for-profit organization focused on developing innovative services and solutions that empower and support teachers, leaders, and school systems to reach every learner. In 2017, the firm welcomed EdLeader21, the premier national network for education transformation, dedicated to accelerating the implementation of 21st-century, deeper learning.
