Portrait of a Graduate
We believe it is imperative that our students are well prepared to contribute to their community and compete in a global economy. The competencies in our Portrait of a TSD Graduate are embedded in the daily interactions between students and staff.

A Thompson School District graduate is a…
A graduate is a
Communicator who…
- Incorporates effective reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills for various purposes.
- Adapts communication style to fit the intended audience.
- Considers multiple perspectives while using fair-minded reasoning to express and evaluate complex ideas.
- Engages in respectful dialogue, actively listening to understand alternate perspectives before drawing conclusions.
- Uses technological skills and digital tools to explore and exchange ideas.
A graduate is a
Critical Thinker who…
- Engages in problem-solving, inquiry, and the design of innovative solutions to overcome obstacles and improve outcomes.
- Thinks creatively to design innovative solutions to real-world problems.
- Evaluates and analyzes ideas and information sources for validity, relevance, and impact.
- Examines underlying assumptions and biases—including one's own—when analyzing information and forming judgments.
A graduate is a
Self-Advocate who…
- Voices personal needs and core beliefs, taking proactive steps to seek solutions and drive positive outcomes.
- Shows intellectual perseverance and resilience when facing challenges, actively seeking solutions and growth opportunities.
- Seeks career pathways and future opportunities.
- Uses time and resources wisely to set goals, complete tasks, and manage projects.
- Engages in ongoing reflection for individual improvement and advocacy.
- Acts as a co-creator of their learning trajectory by engaging in routine goal-setting, self-assessment, and reflection for continuous growth.
A graduate is a
Collaborator who…
- Works effectively with others to achieve shared group goals.
- Takes actions that respect the needs and contributions of others.
- Positively facilitates and contributes to teamwork.
- Navigates interpersonal conflict constructively, seeking common ground to advance collective goals.
- Leverages the unique strengths and perspectives of all team members to enhance group outcomes.
- Partners with educators as co-designers in establishing classroom agreements, project goals, and collaborative learning solutions.
A graduate is a
Citizen who…
- Understands their personal role in the larger community and acts with purpose to create a positive impact.
- Contributes talents toward solutions that benefit the broader community through service.
- Shows empathy, compassion, and respect for others.
- Demonstrates civic responsibility and active community engagement.
Guided by the Thompson Compass.
Our core values shape how we teach and serve; the Portrait of a TSD Graduate describes what that work builds in every student.
