Portrait of a Graduate

Lake Havasu Unified School District began the "Portrait of a Graduate" process in January, 2024. The goal was to clearly define the skills, knowledge, and character traits that students need to succeed in post-secondary education, career, and life after PK-12 education.

A team of 43 individuals was formed with representation from community leaders, civic organizations, families, administrators, teachers, staff, post-secondary institution, and students. This committee listened to students describe their school experience and identified key areas of focus.

This Portrait of a Graduate can be used to:

  • Create a shared vision

  • Guide decisions and drive practices

  • Develop programs, curriculum, and learning experiences

  • Respond to community needs

  • Transform learning

  • Create a roadmap to support well-rounded students PK-12

Driving Questions

  • What are the hopes, aspirations, and dreams that our community has for our young people?

  • What are the skills and habits of mind that our children need for success in this rapidly changing and complex world?

  • What are the implications for the learning experiences we provide in our school systems?

POG logo

Graduate Traits

Civic Contributor

Civic Contributor

  • Engages in service to community​

  • Is civically engaged​

  • Demonstrates ethical and empathetic behavior​

  • Values individual rights and responsibilities​

Collaborator

Collaborator

  • Embraces productive struggle​

  • Practices emotional intelligence​

  • Is adaptable and confident​

  • Works towards a common goal​

Communicator

Communicator

  • Articulates thoughts clearly, both verbally and in writing​

  • Uses constructive language to manage conflict​

  • Listens actively and attentively ​

  • Exercises advocacy for self and others

Community Builder

Community Builder

  • Develops professional skills​

  • Implements career action plan​

  • Gains hands-on experience​

  • Practices time management, accountability, and organization

Content Expert

Content Expert

  • Demonstrates competency of academic standards​

  • Applies skills in Career Technical Education (CTE), Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM), and/or Fine Arts​

  • Understands civic, financial, and digital literacy​

  • Models healthy behaviors​

Creative and Critical Thinker

Creative & Critical Thinker

  • Engages in problem solving​

  • Respects diverse perspectives​

  • Applies critical thinking​

  • Makes informed decisions