Inquisitive Critical Thinker

An inquisitive critical thinker possesses the skills to analyze, solve, and interpret complex challenges with logic, creativity, and open-mindedness.

LCMSD graduates are inquisitive critical thinkers and demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, adeptly tackling obstacles with a combination of logical and creative strategies. They analyze diverse information and viewpoints, drawing well-informed conclusions that foster open-mindedness and collaboration. Their curiosity drives a continuous pursuit of knowledge and exploration of new ideas, encouraging lifelong learning. These thinkers possess the ability to interpret nuances, evaluate sources critically, and become analytical consumers of media in a world overflowing with information. With executive decision-making skills, they approach choices thoughtfully, maintaining a clear balance between the details and the broader context to inform next steps. By drawing connections between concepts, they uncover patterns and generate deeper insights, applying this understanding to complex challenges. Importantly, they recognize the limitations of technology, using it as a tool while evaluating its role in learning, problem-solving, and collaboration. This holistic approach equips them to navigate both the big picture and intricate details, ensuring impactful actions and innovative solutions.

Real-World Ready

Being real-world ready entails managing responsibilities, applying knowledge, and demonstrating adaptability for a sustainable future.

LCMSD graduates are real-world ready, they demonstrate strong time management skills, effectively balancing personal, academic, and professional responsibilities to achieve their goals. They possess financial literacy and planning abilities, empowering them to manage resources wisely and build long-term stability. Independence is a hallmark of their character, as they adapt to and learn from varied environments, gaining the skills necessary to thrive in any setting. Their ability to apply knowledge to practical, real-world scenarios enables them to address both everyday challenges and complex problems with confidence and creativity.

These individuals are environmentally conscious, showing a commitment to sustainability and actively contributing to a healthier planet. They demonstrate social responsibility, prioritizing actions that benefit communities while maintaining a focus on the well-being of future generations. Proficiency with hardware and software tools equips them to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world, ensuring that they remain adaptable and capable in diverse situations. A real-world ready graduate combines practical skills with a forward-thinking mindset, making them capable of creating meaningful impact in their personal and professional lives.

Equity & Inclusion Leader

Equity leaders champion diversity, disrupt inequities, and advocate for inclusive and just communities.

LCMSD graduates are equity and inclusion leaders dedicated to recognizing and disrupting inequities, actively working to create a society grounded in fairness, social justice, and anti-racism. They advocate for diversity, inclusion, and belonging, fostering environments where all voices are valued and uplifted. These leaders possess a deep understanding of the histories and ongoing impacts of systemic oppression, such as the challenges faced by historically underserved communities, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and neurodiverse populations. This knowledge empowers them to dismantle harmful structures and policies that perpetuate inequities and to challenge dominant narratives that exclude marginalized perspectives.

With strong agency and advocacy skills, equity leaders ensure fairness, integrity, and justice in their interactions and decisions. Graduates celebrate and respect diverse cultures and histories, cultivating a broader and more inclusive worldview. Their critical thinking and transformative efforts aim to build balanced, equitable systems that empower all individuals to thrive. By championing equity and inclusion, they drive meaningful change, shaping communities that are not only diverse but also deeply committed to justice and belonging.

Emotionally Intelligent and Socially Aware Leader

Emotionally intelligent leaders navigate interpersonal dynamics with self-awareness, empathy, and resilience.

An emotionally intelligent and socially aware leader begins with self-awareness, understanding their own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, biases, and the impact they have on others. This foundation allows them to practice self-regulation, effectively managing their emotions and behaviors to respond thoughtfully to challenges and interactions. Empathy enables them to connect deeply with others by recognizing and understanding their emotions, fostering meaningful relationships. Such graduates demonstrate resilience, recovering from setbacks with a positive outlook and determination to grow. Guided by compassion, they show care and kindness in their interactions, creating an environment of trust and support.

Their well-honed social skills allow them to navigate interpersonal relationships with sensitivity and insight, whether in-person, virtual, or digital. They excel in conflict resolution, addressing disagreements constructively and maintaining harmony in diverse settings. With a focus on emotional intelligence, they build connections that inspire collaboration, inclusion, and understanding, ensuring their leadership promotes both individual and collective growth.

Effective Communicator and Collaborator

Effective communicators and collaborators foster understanding and inclusivity through purposeful expression and teamwork.

LCMSD graduates are effective communicators who demonstrate strength in written, verbal, and visual presentation skills, articulating their ideas clearly and persuasively across diverse audiences. They are skilled listeners, actively engaging with and understanding different perspectives, which enhances their ability to build meaningful connections. Graduates excel in purposeful collaboration, contributing significantly to group efforts and fostering a sense of shared purpose. Their media literacy allows them to critically evaluate and communicate across various platforms and modalities, ensuring that their message is both ethical and impactful.

They value and respect the opinions of others, cultivating inclusive environments where all voices are heard. With empathy, kindness, and compassion, they build trust and strengthen relationships, bridging differences to achieve common goals. Their adaptability and flexibility enable them to thrive in changing and diverse settings, adjusting their approaches to suit the needs of the moment. Rooted in a focus on human connection, they foster cooperation and cultivate strong teamwork, making their contributions not only effective but also transformative.

Ethical & Responsible Contributor to Society

Ethical and responsible contributors act with integrity, fostering inclusivity and positive societal impact.

LCMSD graduates are ethical and responsible contributors who are guided by a strong moral compass, making decisions rooted in a clear sense of right and wrong. Integrity shapes their actions, as they consistently act with honesty, transparency, and trustworthiness in every endeavor. They embrace accountability, taking ownership of their decisions and actions while demonstrating a deep sense of responsibility toward others. These individuals lead by example, modeling ethical behavior that embodies fairness, respect, and empathy in all interactions.

They actively cultivate a diverse worldview, fostering curiosity and respect for the perspectives of others, both locally and globally. This broad understanding drives their commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and respected. Their ethical use of technology reflects a thoughtful approach to navigating the digital world with awareness and responsibility. Dedicated to positively contributing to society, they focus on actions that build stronger, more equitable communities. By championing integrity, accountability, and inclusivity, they inspire change and leave a lasting impact on the world.

Adaptable Lifelong Learner

Graduates possess a genuine passion for acquiring knowledge and developing new skills, which fuels ongoing personal and academic growth.

An adaptable lifelong learner embodies resilience, learning from setbacks and persevering through adversity with determination and optimism. They approach challenges with a growth mindset, seeing each obstacle as an opportunity to learn, improve, and innovate. These individuals are flexible, readily adapting to new and shifting technologies, circumstances, and environments. They remain open to expansive thinking, new methods, and creative approaches to learning, enabling them to thrive in a world of constant change.

Their proactive engagement and innate curiosity drive them to explore new ideas and seek knowledge beyond immediate needs, fueling their passion for lifelong learning. A love of learning is central to their identity, as they take joy in acquiring new skills and expanding their understanding, which supports ongoing personal and academic growth. Graduates exhibit confidence in their ability to ask questions, embrace mistakes, and use these experiences as stepping stones for improvement. Adaptable lifelong learners embody a mindset of continuous curiosity and innovation, equipping them to navigate and contribute meaningfully to a dynamic and evolving world.

Critically Thinking & Creative Educator

Demonstrates innovation, creativity and resilience to continually adapt and embrace new/changing technologies, circumstances and teaching methodologies.

LCMSD’s critically thinking and creative educators design problem-solving opportunities that challenge students to navigate complex learning scenarios using both logic and creativity. They encourage inquiry and curiosity, fostering a mindset that values deep thinking and innovative approaches. By embracing innovative thinking, these educators introduce new ideas and solutions into the classroom to enhance the student experience. They integrate arts, design-thinking, and multidisciplinary study, creating opportunities for creative exploration and playful learning experiences that stimulate curiosity and joy. Grounded in data-driven, evidence-based practices, they continually refine their teaching to meet students’ diverse needs. They also demonstrate resilience and adaptability, embracing new technologies, circumstances, and methodologies to stay at the forefront of education. Through differentiated instruction that incorporates voice and choice, they ensure every student feels empowered and supported in their unique learning journey.

Caring, Kind, & Connected Adult

Demonstrates care, kindness and connection to inspire belief, inclusion, and emotional well-being.

LCMSD educators are Caring, connected, and kind adults who respect students as individuals, building meaningful connections that ensure every student feels seen, valued, and supported. They embody kindness and positivity, inspiring students to believe in themselves and fostering a secure, uplifting environment for learning and personal growth. Their ability to empathize and share in students’ feelings creates a nurturing space where emotional well-being is prioritized. With strong social and relationship-building skills, they connect meaningfully not only with students but also with their families, strengthening the broader learning community. A deep understanding of child development enables them to tailor support and guidance, while their focus on mental health awareness ensures students’ emotional needs are met. By modeling patience and offering students the time and encouragement needed to learn and grow, they build a community rooted in acceptance, inclusion, and belonging.

Equity-Focused Change Agent

Champions equity and inclusion to create a just, compassionate, and responsive school community.

LCMSD staff are equity-focused change agents who design learning experiences that are deeply informed by and responsive to diverse cultures, perspectives, and lived experiences. They proactively challenge and dismantle inequities, fostering a school community rooted in equity, social justice, and anti-racism. By cultivating an inclusive environment, they ensure every student feels a profound sense of belonging in the classroom, school, and broader community. These leaders courageously create safe and brave spaces for meaningful dialogues about inclusivity, bias, diversity, and equity, empowering students and colleagues to engage in transformative conversations. With a deep understanding of local and global challenges, the history of marginalized communities, and systems of oppression, they inspire critical thinking, empathy, and action. By integrating diverse perspectives into teaching and taking concrete steps to advance cultural competence, they celebrate the unique identities and experiences of their students. Equity-focused educators also demonstrate a commitment to self-reflection, actively addressing personal biases and working to eliminate barriers that hinder student success. They champion the belief that all students can excel, ensuring equitable access to high-level learning opportunities and creating a foundation for success for every learner.

Emotionally & Socially Aware Leader

Models emotional awareness, empathy, and cultural responsiveness to cultivate belonging and collaboration.

LCMSD educators demonstrate emotional and social awareness by identifying and managing emotions in challenging situations, maintaining composure, and offering a calm, stable presence. They interact respectfully with others, honoring norms to foster collaboration and mutual growth. Their empathy enables them to deeply understand and acknowledge students’ emotions, building trust and strong emotional connections. By ensuring all students feel valued, supported, and a sense of belonging, these leaders cultivate an inclusive and affirming environment. They are culturally responsive, celebrating the diverse backgrounds of students and modeling acceptance to promote understanding and inclusivity throughout the school community.

Flexible Collaborator

Facilitates a culture of inquiry to promote curiosity, a deeper understanding of subjects, and appreciation for different perspectives.

LCMSD educators are flexible collaborators who prioritize active listening to ensure every voice is heard and respected. Their problem-solving skills enable them to navigate challenges effectively while supporting students’ growth. Inclusive leadership fosters a safe, cooperative atmosphere where curiosity and diverse perspectives are valued. They foster a culture of inquiry that sparks curiosity and encourages students to explore subjects deeply. By promoting open-mindedness and valuing diverse perspectives, they create a learning environment where understanding and critical thinking thrive. By leveraging strong social skills, they cultivate positive relationships with students and colleagues. These collaborators have an adaptive mindset where they responsibly integrate technology and innovative practices to enhance team learning experiences. Through close partnerships with colleagues, they continually improve teaching methods, building an inclusive, inquiry-driven culture.

Impactful & Effective Communicator

Demonstrates emotional intelligence, empathy, and effective communication to inspire, connect, and guide growth.

LCMSD educators are impactful and effective communicators who excel in providing constructive feedback that highlights opportunities for growth, paving the way for student success. They empathize deeply, forming meaningful connections and offering unwavering support to students. Their ability to communicate ideas with clarity across verbal, written, and presentation formats ensures engagement with diverse audiences, including students, parents, and colleagues. Emotional intelligence empowers them to navigate complex emotions, resolve conflicts, and foster positive relationships, while their adaptability ensures understanding and respect in all interactions. They inspire students to advocate for themselves by fostering self-confidence and growth, while their energetic and engaging presence helps create a supportive and connected environment.

Adaptive & Enthusiastic Lifelong Learner

Embraces growth and innovation to create an adaptive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.

LCMSD educators are adaptive and enthusiastic lifelong learners who embrace change with a positive attitude, leading by example and fostering an innovative learning culture. Their flexibility enables them to tailor teaching strategies to the diverse needs of students, addressing neurodiversity, emotional regulation, trauma, and varied learning styles with empathy and cultural awareness. They embody a growth mindset and willingly abandon outdated methods to adopt research-driven practices. Through enthusiasm, balance, and a focus on holistic student development, they integrate technology, arts, and interdisciplinary approaches to enhance education. By employing universal design for learning, they ensure accessibility, creating an inclusive environment that supports the success of all students.

The System Portrait describes the changes needed in our school district in order to create the conditions that will enable staff to attain the Adult Portrait and so support students in realizing the Graduate Portrait.

This is a long-term vision and these changes will not happen all at once. This portrait, created from the work of the Guiding Coalition and the broader community, will inform a series of detailed strategic plans which will determine what we do, and in what order, so that we can successfully guide our district and support our students’ success.

Dynamic & Engaging Learning Experiences

LCMSD is committed to engaging, creative, and student-centered learning experiences.

LCMSD works to create a learning community where education is dynamic, immersive, and inspiring for every student. To achieve this, we design flexible and personalized curricula that prioritize creativity, choice, and relevance. Real-world experiences, social-emotional learning, and practical life skills are integrated into core curriculum to prepare students for future success. By adopting project-based and collaborative learning approaches, we empower students to engage deeply, think critically, and work effectively with others. We also place an emphasis on the arts and creativity, fostering vibrant, multidimensional learning environments that inspire innovation and self-expression.

Culture of Equity & Inclusion

Unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion, dismantling barriers while celebrating diversity.

We work to establish a culture of equity and inclusion that reflects an unwavering commitment to achieving excellence for every student. This includes proactively acknowledging systemic oppression and addressing it through policy, practice, and accountability. We actively recognize and dismantle implicit and explicit biases within our organization, continuously assess and address achievement gaps, and implement equitable, student-centered approaches to maximize learning outcomes for all. We proactively identify and eliminate barriers that hinder student participation, achievement, and sense of belonging, while cultivating deep and meaningful community engagement. By elevating the voices and histories of underrepresented communities and designing culturally responsive and immersive experiences, we empower students and staff to thrive. Furthermore, we strategically recruit, develop, and retain a diverse workforce, including representation in staff and parent leadership roles. These efforts, along with targeted outreach to ensure equitable access to vital information, services, and support systems, create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered.

Commitment to Safety, Health, & Wellness

Foster a school environment that prioritizes safety, health, wellness, and meaningful connections to support the holistic well-being of students and staff.

LCMSD cultivates a safe and nurturing environment where physical, mental, and emotional well-being are integral to the learning experience. We work to create a learning community where safety, health, and wellness are foundational. Trusted adults build meaningful connections with students, ensuring a sense of security and belonging for all. We create joyful and engaging learning environments that are reflective of all community members. We prioritize daily wellness education, accessible mental health resources, and trauma-informed practices to support the holistic well-being of students and staff. Outdoor learning spaces, nutritious meals, and mindfulness practices are integrated into the school environment to promote lifelong wellness. By collaborating with public health agencies, law enforcement and first responders, we maintain proactive and adaptive safety measures that create a nurturing space for everyone to flourish.

Clear Expectations within a Culture of Belonging

Create a community environment where students feel safe, included, respected, and heard.

LCMSD works to foster a culture of belonging where clear expectations and equitable practices ensure safety, inclusion, and mutual respect for all. Equity-focused policies, procedures, and practices guide our efforts to ensure access and belonging for every member of the school community. We implement restorative practices to repair and rebuild relationships while deepening the use of multi-tiered systems of support to address diverse academic, behavioral, and emotional needs. By adopting best practices for school safety and positive behavioral interventions and supports, we create a structured environment where students feel secure and valued. Transparent communication and consistent expectations build trust and accountability, empowering students, staff, and families to contribute meaningfully. These intentional efforts ensure that everyone in the learning community thrives in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

Future Focused Facilities & Ethical Technology Integration

Equip students and schools with ethical, effective, and innovative uses of technology within adaptable, future-focused learning environments.

We work to create future-focused facilities and integrate technology in a way that supports ethical and purposeful learning. We teach students to use technology responsibly and effectively, preparing them to navigate a digital world with confidence. Flexible and adaptive school environments are designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, with technology serving as a tool to enhance learning. By aligning technology use with district goals and priorities, we ensure it is implemented strategically, enabling both students and adults to innovate and achieve broader educational objectives.

Adaptable Structures and Routines that Enhance Student and Adult Growth

Adaptability to ensure the growth and well-being of students and adults.

LCMSD has established adaptable structures and routines that promote the growth and well-being of both students and staff. By prioritizing employee compensation, robust support systems, and continuous professional development, we ensure that staff are empowered to work compassionately and intentionally. Additionally, we reflect on and refine norms to deepen collaboration and support professional and personal growth among staff. We foster small, personalized learning experiences to strengthen relationships and meet individual needs more effectively. Collaboration with community leaders and families is a priority, bringing diverse perspectives into the learning process. Flexibility in school calendars, schedules, and structures allows us to meet diverse learning needs while encouraging innovative approaches. Through reflective practices, and regular celebrations of achievements, we create a responsive and supportive culture where all members of the learning community can thrive.

Core values are the enduring beliefs of an organization that remain steadfast over time. By making these values explicit through value statements, and tethering them to the vision, an organization articulates the ethical principles that guides action toward their vision.

These seven statements were developed as an outcome of the vision work. While Core Values are foundational, when creating any kind of system change we need to be able to articulate the new state and then the values that will align with that future. This set of values incorporates the spirit of some of the existing values, and builds upon them to create the foundation for the vision.

Whole-Child, Student-Centered Education

We are committed to supporting each student's highest potential through a comprehensive, inquiry- and standards-based curriculum. We believe that fostering well-being, social-emotional and physical, is essential to creating an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and empowered to learn collaboratively.

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Belonging

We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and included. We actively work to ensure equitable access to opportunities and resources for all students, faculty, staff, and community members, embracing diversity as a strength that enriches our learning community.

Valuing Staff, Parents, and Community

Our success depends on valuing the diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives of our staff, parents, and community members. Their commitment, creativity, and well-being contribute to a thriving educational environment.

Building Citizenship with Kindness and Integrity

We model good citizenship, ethical behavior, kindness, and empathy. We believe that building these qualities enriches our community and prepares students to be compassionate, responsible members of a global society.

Inspiring & Transparent Leadership

Our learning leaders model goals and values that are visible and inspire teams. They communicate with transparency, collaborate authentically with the community, and uphold a focus on students and positive learning climates.

Commitment to Progress and Accountability

We are dedicated to continuous improvement in academic and social/emotional goals. Through integrity and accountability, we set and measure progress towards strategic priorities, ensuring effective use of resources for long-term success.

Adaptable, Innovative Learning Culture

We promote strategic thinking, creativity, and innovation, responding to changing circumstances with flexibility and agility. We invest in lifelong learning for all through professional development and peer-to-peer collaboration.