NY Inspires

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) Portrait of a Graduate defines the overarching qualities and skills every student must demonstrate to earn a diploma, replacing Regents exams as the primary graduation requirement starting with students entering 9th grade in 2027 (Class of 2031).

The framework centers on six essential attributes 

Graduates must be:

• Academically Prepared: Demonstrate mastery of state learning standards for success in college, career, civic life, and service.

• Creative Innovators: Use imagination, curiosity, and flexible thinking to solve problems and adapt to new challenges.

• Critical Thinkers: Analyze and evaluate information across subjects, identifying connections to address complex issues.

• Effective Communicators: Clearly articulate ideas in speech, writing, and various media, engaging with diverse audiences and perspectives.

• Global Citizens: Act ethically in local and global communities, using civic knowledge and mindsets to advance sustainability and contribute to a diverse society.

• Reflective and Future-Focused: Engage in self-reflection, set goals, maintain relationships, and make responsible decisions, emphasizing social, emotional, and mental well-being.

• These attributes are anchored in principles of Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education, promoting inclusivity and respect for diversity.

• The framework allows for multiple ways to demonstrate these skills, including research projects, service learning, debates, and planning future goals.

Timeline and Implementation:

• The Portrait was formally adopted in July 2025 and will guide regulatory and instructional changes over the coming years.

• Detailed rubrics and specific criteria are expected by the 2026–27 school year.

• Full implementation starts with the Class of 2031, with current 8th graders (as of 2025–26) the first group affected.

• Regents exams will no longer be required for graduation beginning in the 2027–28 school year, though some federal testing will continue.