THE EASTERN EDGE
|Portrait of a Graduate|
Understanding the Eastern York Portrait of a Graduate
How might we continuously examine and update our vision, modern curriculum, digital ecosystem, and professional learning to reflect the needs of society and provide high-quality opportunities for students to explore their future and connect with the community?
As part of our comprehensive plan, our district was required to revise our Mission and Vision statements. This could not have come at a better time for us since the landscape of education has changed dramatically. By working with various stakeholders and our greater school community, we were able to co-generate the words you see before you. We developed themes and trends. Then we began to wordsmith phrases together. Once we had that, we were able to start to develop drafts of these statements and share them. After collecting feedback and revisions, we brought forth these statements to the Board of Directors for approval.
One of the things we found most valuable using this process is that it helps to tell our story. It gives a fresh perspective on what the EDGE experience is within Eastern York, and it drives the focus of our decision-making.
We are trying to connect our students with opportunities to learn beyond general subject academics. We are also teaching transferable skills and dispositions that will carry our students well into adulthood. These soft skills will enable them to successfully join the workforce in whatever direction they choose. These skills and dispositions include critical thinking, creative innovation, collaboration, communication, citizenship, integrity, and a growth mindset. We collaboratively developed these skills and dispositions over 2-3 months with our Profile of a Graduate committee.
