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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.

Graduates in purple gowns toss their caps in the air within a crowded arena, with a large circular screen hanging overhead.

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.