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Portrait of a Learner

Dedham’s Portrait of a Learner is a cornerstone of the district’s five-year strategic plan and serves as a unifying vision for student success. More than just a set of goals, it represents the community’s shared aspirations for what all students should know, be able to do, and value by the time they graduate.

Developed collaboratively by the Dedham Public Schools Design Team—with input from educators, families, and students—the Portrait of a Learner outlines the durable skills that will prepare our students for college, career, and life. These are the skills that go beyond academic achievement—such as critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, empathy, and effective communication—and they are essential for thriving in a rapidly changing world.

Whether in the classroom, on the stage, in athletic competitions, or through service to others, the Portrait of a Learner guides our efforts to ensure that every student is equipped with the tools they need to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities.  We invite families to explore the Portrait of a Learner and join us in bringing this vision to life every day.
 

Portrait of a Learner Competencies

CRITICAL THINKING

  • Analyze and evaluate information from multiple sources by applying content knowledge, personal experience, and insights from others to build an informed evidence base.
  • Adapt thinking by incorporating feedback, reflecting on learning, and revising ideas when presented with new information.
  • Apply disciplined thinking informed by evidence and diverse perspectives.
  • Interpret and synthesize diverse perspectives and justify decisions through logical reasoning.

COLLABORATION

  • Seek help when needed.
  • Share roles and responsibilities to achieve common goals.
  • Demonstrate curiosity, respect, and investment in others’ perspectives.
  • Be flexible in one’s thinking and open minded to feedback.

COMMUNICATION

  • Self advocate and express ideas clearly and confidently using various means of communication.
  • Listen actively to understand what others mean, believe, and feel.
  • Adjust communication based on audience and goals.

GLOBAL CITIZENS

  • Value and embrace diverse cultures and backgrounds through mutual respect and open dialogue.
  • Demonstrate awareness and respect to connect with another person’s opinions, experiences, and cultures.
  • Take informed and responsible action to promote equity, peace, and sustainability in both local and global contexts.

PERSEVERANCE

  • Understand that failure is a normal part of success.
  • Learn from both positive and negative feedback and remain flexible to making needed changes.
  • Listen to, understand, and discuss different opinions to reach shared solutions.
  • Demonstrate flexibility to successfully adapt to changing priorities, roles, and uncertain situations.

LEARNER'S MINDSET

  • Show confidence in the ability to learn and grow, even when faced with challenges.
  • Reflect on learning and use input from others to improve and move forward.
  • Ask questions, take risks, explore new ideas, and stay open to learning from different people and perspectives.

 

POLCompetencies-2025FINAL (PDF)

About The Logo

Dedham’s logo was designed by Dedham High School senior Bianca Forbes as part of her senior internship, completed under the District’s Communications office. Bianca’s design reflects the spirit and identity of the Dedham Public Schools community, capturing both tradition and forward momentum. Her work showcases the creativity and talent of our students and highlights the value of authentic, real-world learning experiences built into our high school internship program.