Portrait of a Graduate

A Vision for Our Scholars’ Future

At Hempstead Public Schools, our mission extends far beyond academic success. We are committed to preparing every scholar to thrive in an ever-changing world as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. Our Portrait of a Graduate is a shared vision that reflects the knowledge, skills, and character traits our scholars will need to succeed in college, careers, and life.

This portrait was developed with input from educators, parents, community leaders, and scholars themselves. It represents our promise to the Hempstead community: that every graduate will leave our schools prepared to lead, innovate, and contribute to a better future.

The 6 Essential Traits for Success

Adaptable & Resilient

Core Values

Critical Thinking

Effective Communication

Self-Management

Student Voice

Preparing Scholars from Kindergarten to Graduation

Our Portrait of a Graduate is not only about the final day of high school—it is a vision woven into every classroom experience from kindergarten onward. Through:

Rigorous academics aligned with New York State standards
Social-emotional learning that builds resilience and empathy
Arts, athletics, and enrichment opportunities that spark creativity
Career and college readiness programs that connect learning to real-world pathways

…we ensure that every scholar moves step-by-step toward embodying the Hempstead Graduate.

Scholars from Prospect Elementary School

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Developing Global Learners through PYP & MYP

Hempstead Public Schools is proud to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) as part of our commitment to preparing every scholar for success in college, careers, and life. These internationally recognized programs align closely with our Portrait of a Graduate by nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship from the earliest grades through middle school.

Hempstead UFSD is a IB PYP and MYP District.

Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Middle Years Programme (MYP)

Primary Years Programme (PYP)

The PYP serves scholars in grades K–6, providing a strong foundation for inquiry-based learning.

Focus on the Whole Child: The program develops not only academic skills, but also social, emotional, and physical well-being.
Inquiry-Based Approach: Scholars are encouraged to ask meaningful questions, explore concepts deeply, and connect classroom learning to the real world.
IB Learner Profile: Through traits such as being inquirers, communicators, principled, and caring, our scholars grow into thoughtful, well-rounded individuals.

By the time Hempstead scholars complete the PYP, they are confident learners who take ownership of their education and demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility to themselves and their community.

Middle Years Programme (MYP)

The MYP builds upon the PYP by serving scholars in grades 7–8 and preparing them for the academic challenges of high school and beyond.

Interdisciplinary Learning: Scholars make connections across subjects to understand complex issues from multiple perspectives.
Real-World Applications: The MYP emphasizes problem-solving and service learning, encouraging scholars to apply knowledge to their community and the wider world.
Personal Project: In their final year, scholars complete a personal project that reflects their passions, talents, and growth as independent learners.

The MYP empowers Hempstead scholars to think critically, act responsibly, and see themselves as part of a global society.

A Community-Wide Commitment

The success of our Portrait of a Graduate depends on the partnership between schools, families, and community organizations. Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, and neighbors who will represent Hempstead with pride.

Parents support this vision by reinforcing lifelong learning at home.
Community partners create opportunities for mentorships, internships, and service.
Educators integrate these competencies into daily instruction and school culture.

Looking Ahead: Our Promise to Hempstead

Every diploma from Hempstead Public Schools will represent more than academic achievement—it will symbolize a young person who is ready to succeed in higher education, careers, and civic life. Our graduates will leave us not only with knowledge, but also with the confidence, character, and skills to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Call to Action

We invite parents, community members, and local partners to join us in this important mission. Together, we can ensure that Hempstead graduates are:

Prepared for the future
Grounded in strong values
Proud representatives of our community

For more information about Hempstead Public Schools’ Portrait of a Graduate and how you can support our scholars, please contact our Office of Curriculum & Instruction.

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