On Sunday, 142 members of the Greely Class of 2025 walked across the outdoor amphitheater to receive their diplomas, turn their tassels, and join the 144 years of Greely alum who preceded them. The age-old bell that adorns the storied Institute building, which rang at the first Greely commencement back in 1880, graced the newly installed graduates as they made their way to the final recessional. The Class of 2025 is known for its musical talent, accomplishments, athleticism, hard work, leadership, school pride, and kindness. They left an indelible mark on GHS and MSAD #51, and we are all better for it. Thank you, a fond farewell, and very best wishes, Class of 2025! Never forget where you came from.
Speaking of graduation and diplomas, the Board of Directors will be voting on Greely's Profile of a Learner later this week, a signature document that portrays the aspirational skills and universal experiences we hope for all Greely graduates by the time they leave us at the end of 12th grade. These experiences are ones that start from kindergarten and weave their way through the years, strengthening students' ability to meet both the challenges and opportunities of the 21st Century. Here are the four overarching components of this Profile, as crafted by a representative stakeholder group over the last 18 months in alignment with the district's Strategic Plan:
- Effective Communicator
- Lifelong Learner
- Creative Problem Solver
- Global Citizen
The work force is one that is rapidly changing, and preparation for its future must change, too. Prolific US Jobs from the 1950s, such as switchboard operators, home milk delivery drivers, gas station attendants, and typists, are all virtually nonexistent today, all within just 75 years' time. The latest futurist research shows that most high school graduates in 2025 can expect to have 7 careers (not jobs...careers) by the time they end up retiring, many of which have yet to be invented. Wow, soak that in for a moment. More than ever, we must teach transferable and portable skills that are adaptable and serviceable for a lifetime. We owe our students no less than this.
Next week, I'll conclude a six-part series about the district budget. To catch up on previous segments, check out the links below:
Part 5: Budget Implications for Taxpayers
Part 4: Budget Impacts
Part 3: Budget Organization
Part 2: Determining Budget Priorities
Part 1: Budget Process