Self-aware
Demonstrates a strong sense of identity and resilience as an individual and a learner.
Portrait of a PS1 graduate
When a PS1 student turns twelve and steps into the wider world, this is what you can expect them to embody.
The Portrait of a PS1 Graduate reflects the qualities we see again and again in students as they complete their seven-year journey.
It is the result of a year and a half of thoughtful reflection, research, and listening to the voices of graduates, parents, teachers, and the middle schools that welcome our students next.
Respectful
Exhibits kindness, consideration, and mindfulness of others.
Expressive
Confidently articulates thoughts, ideas, and emotions.
Inquisitive
Eagerly satisfies curiosities and acquires new knowledge.
Collaborative
Considers others' ideas and points of view to deepen understanding.
Problem-solving
Investigates problems, sets goals, and develops solutions encompassing multiple perspectives.
Connected
Balances needs of self and others, and contributes meaningfully in community and society.
Proactive
Embraces responsibility to stand up to exclusion, prejudice, and injustice, and advocates for change.
Prepared
Intrinsically motivated to meet the challenges of middle school and beyond.
There was space for everyone at PS1. I would not be the confident and communicative person I am today if it weren't for PS1.
How we built the portrait
To create it, we gathered input from every corner of the community.
- Surveys from recent and past graduates and their families
- Insights from teachers and staff
- Feedback from middle school educators who receive PS1 students
- Reflections from current parents about what drew them here, and how they see their children growing
Across all voices, a common picture emerged. These qualities appear year after year, not as aspirations but as lived realities of our students.
How we foster them
Every program, classroom experience, and relationship at PS1 is intentionally designed to help children grow into these attributes. Teachers and specialists keep this portrait at the center of their work: in daily planning, in units of study, and in their care for each individual child.
