One of the highlights of each Board of Education meeting is recognizing students who exemplify the Portrait of an LPS Graduate, LPS's vision for the knowledge, skills, and character we want every student to develop before graduation.

While Rigorous and Relevant Academic Skills provide the foundation, we know success in college, careers, and life depends on the ability to adapt, collaborate, communicate, and think critically in an ever-changing world. That’s why the Portrait emphasizes developing students who are Well-Adjusted, Thriving, and Balanced, while growing in:

• Communication

• Global and Cultural Awareness

• Character

• Critical Thinking

• Problem Solving

• Adaptability

• Creativity

• Risk-Taking

• Resiliency

• Collaboration

• Self-Advocacy

These aren’t skills students develop in a single classroom or a single year. They are cultivated through meaningful learning experiences, relationships, and opportunities from preschool through graduation, and we are proud to recognize students of all ages who demonstrate these qualities and remind us what it means to be an LPS graduate.

At the September 10 meeting, the Board of Education recognized students from Nova Center.

Hayden J. demonstrates the Portrait of a Graduate through his resilience and problem-solving. Hayden loves sports, especially football and soccer, and he also really likes to exercise and be active. Hayden has an amazing sense of humor, is kind, and truly cares about his peers. He wants the people around him to be happy and enjoys making his teachers proud. One of his favorite things about school is actually the schoolwork! He loves to learn and often asks for more work or even homework to take home. We have seen tremendous growth in all of his academics, and we are so proud of how hard he has worked. Hayden is so much fun to have in class. We are especially proud of how much he has focused on his own self-advocacy. Hayden is a leader in his class and continues to demonstrate character in everything he does. Well done, Hayden!

Alex G.’s photo should be next to resilience in the Portrait of an LPS Graduate. He is also a very capable collaborator with his peers and a staunch self-advocate. When Alex first walked into the classroom, he was quiet and observant, taking in everything around him with a curious eye. It didn't take long for his bright, playful personality to shine through, and Alex keeps our classroom filled with smiles, jokes, and laughter! Beyond his fun-loving spirit, Alex has quickly emerged as a natural, thoughtful leader. Whether he patiently teaches a classmate how to play checkers, helps a friend navigate our daily routines, or steps in with encouraging words when someone needs support, everyone around him feels his kindness and character. Even when faced with tricky challenges early this school year, Alex demonstrated incredible perseverance—continuing to show up every day with a positive attitude and a determination to succeed. We are so proud of Alex, especially as a leader and friend!

Raven Stewart is a committed learner and friendly classmate to other students at Nova. With her wit, attention to detail, and patience in learning, Raven shows some of the key characteristics of a learner who will make great strides in her academic career. Raven demonstrates the Portrait of a Graduate through her self-advocacy, adaptability, and resiliency. Even when tasks are complex, Raven keeps her head up, learns through new experiences, and comes out on the other side in a positive and caring manner. Raven exudes perseverance and character in everything she does. Keep it up, Raven!

Silas C. shows the Portrait of a Graduate in many ways. His rigorous and relevant academic skills and adaptability earned him the opportunity to join the secondary class as a middle schooler, and Silas has been a welcome addition to Nova’s secondary classrooms. Through effort, patience, and persistence, Silas reflects a clear commitment to his learning and his future. His sense of humor keeps his peers engaged, and his collaborative efforts make the team more cohesive. Creativity in ideas and design is a skill that sets Silas apart. He loves to make intricate creatures out of pipe cleaners that rival the imagination of Picasso. If you ever get the chance to experience one of his creations, consider yourself super fortunate! Keep up the good work, Silas!

Pip P. demonstrates the Portrait of a Graduate through creativity. She’s very imaginative with a strong passion for expressing her artistic talents by drawing characters. She has a fun, entertaining personality, especially when it comes to voice impressions, which she enjoys sharing with others. She is positive, enthusiastic, and willing to put in the effort to succeed. She works hard in school, demonstrating resiliency when faced with a challenge. Pip excels in communication, collaboration, and self-advocacy. She treats her classmates with kindness, respect, and her character is a positive contribution to creating a welcoming and supportive environment at Nova. Keep being you, Pip!