Wisconsin DPI asking residents what they want from graduates

With AI likely changing the job market for the state’s youngest workers, the Department of Public Instruction is asking Wisconsin residents for their opinions on what students need to succeed after high school. 

The new initiative, called “Portrait of a Graduate,” won’t change graduation requirements or introduce new curriculum to public schools.

Rather, it will focus on the skills young people need when they graduate — no matter what field they enter. 

“Strong academics still matter and they always will,” Superintendent Jill Underly said during a press conference Tuesday. “We continuously hear from our workforce partners that graduates need skills that will remain relevant over time, even as technology, AI and the job market continue to change. 

Those skills include critical thinking, adaptability, resilience, communication and collaboration, Underly said.

The Portrait of a Graduate initiative is being led by a steering committee made up of educators, students, higher education partners, statewide education organizations, employers and representatives from industries across Wisconsin.  

So far, DPI has held 14 listening sessions across the state. But the agency wants to hear more. 

Virtual listening sessions are scheduled for May 27 and June 3. 

Laura Roeker, DPI’s director of teaching and learning, said once the Portrait of a Graduate is established, the agency will support school districts in implementing “innovative educational practices that foster the skills outlined.” 

Underly said this is a statewide effort to define what success for students looks like today, as AI is changing the world so quickly.  

“We talk about proliferation of screens and technology, and maybe even social skills that kids are struggling with,” Underly said. “We just hear resounding consensus that we want kids who are well-rounded, that are creative, that are critical thinkers, and know how to communicate, know what perseverance is. And so this is about preparing students, not just for graduation, but for what comes after.”