Concord-Carlisle High School Launches Vision of a Graduate Process

CONCORD — What should every Concord-Carlisle graduate know and be able to do by the time they leave high school? That’s the question Concord-Carlisle High School is asking as it begins a yearlong effort to develop a Vision of a Graduate.

The project will bring together students, parents, educators, alumni, and community members to define the essential skills and attributes that will prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.

Working with consultant Abby Benedetto of Core Shifts, who has guided similar efforts across the country, the District recently launched the process with sessions involving school leaders, parents, teachers, and students.

“Developing a Vision of a Graduate is an opportunity for our entire community to come together around a shared vision for our students’ future,” said Superintendent Laurie Hunter. “We want to ensure that what students learn here equips them to thrive in college, careers, and life.”

During her first visit, Benedetto met with the Leadership Team to review the District’s foundational documents and facilitated small-group conversations with students, faculty, and parents to identify common themes. These themes will guide the work of a newly formed Design Team, a 35-member group of students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, and community members.

In addition, the District will host three community sessions at Concord-Carlisle High School to gather broader input:

• Wednesday, Oct. 29, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Wednesday, March 11, 6:30-8 p.m.

Anyone wishing to participate in the evening sessions is asked to complete the Vision of a Graduate Community Participation Form.

Feedback from the community sessions, along with additional stakeholder conversations, will inform the Design Team’s work in drafting the Vision of a Graduate. The District anticipates a final draft by the end of the academic year.

“Our goal is to create a process that is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the hopes of the entire Concord-Carlisle community,” said Concord-Carlisle High School Co-Principal Brian Seth Miller. “We want voices from every corner of the District to help shape the final product.”

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