Update re. Portrait of a Graduate | No Immediate Changes

Dear Pine Valley Families,

As part of NY Inspires and the Portrait of a Graduate initiative adopted in July 2025, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) and the Board of Regents are exploring changes to how students demonstrate readiness for graduation and life after high school. At the September 2026 board meeting, the Board of Regents approved a framework for changes, and additional guidance and regulations are expected later this school year. Until those regulations are formally adopted, all current graduation requirements remain in effect. 

It is anticipated that New York will transition to a single high school diploma pathway beginning with students who graduate in 2028. As part of this change, students will no longer be required to pass a prescribed set of Regents exams as a separate requirement for earning a diploma.

More Graduation Pathways

Please note that Regents examinations are not being eliminated. They will continue to be administered and remain an important measure of student achievement and mastery of New York State learning standards. While much of the recent discussion has focused on Regents examinations, they are only one component of the broader work underway to modernize New York State's graduation and assessment system. As part of this effort, New York State is exploring additional ways for students to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and competencies they develop throughout their educational experience and their readiness for success beyond high school.

No Immediate Changes

For the 2026-27 school year, all current graduation and assessment requirements remain in effect. Students should continue to attend classes regularly, complete all required coursework and credits, prepare for and take Regents examinations as scheduled, and follow their current academic plans. At this time, there are no immediate changes to student schedules, course requirements, or academic expectations.

Looking Ahead 

New York State is gradually moving toward a broader approach to determining student readiness for life after high school. This work is guided by the state’s Portrait of a Graduate, which outlines the knowledge, skills, and qualities students should develop before graduation.

The Portrait of a Graduate identifies six key attributes:

These attributes reflect the state's vision for ensuring all students graduate ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world. We will continue to keep families informed as additional guidance becomes available and will approach any future changes with students at the center of our planning and decision-making.

Additional information regarding NY Inspires and the Portrait of a Graduate can be found on the New York State Education Department website.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students.

Sincerely,

Shanda Duclon

Superintendent of Schools