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Your North Star Constellation
Portrait of a Learner
Portrait of a Graduate
Portraid of a Trustee
If your school's North Star represents “the core values and aspirations that should inform every decision, interaction, and initiative," according to NAIS, then the Portrait of a Learner/Graduate, along with the Portrait of a Teacher, Portrait of a Classroom/Learning Space, Portrait of a Leader, and Portrait of a Trustee serve as a "cohesive framework that collectively make up the constellation of North Star documents that define a school’s identity, strategic direction, and cultural ethos, enhancing its value and distinction in a competitive landscape."
Mike Cobb at Mission & Data describes these important elements of the North Star constellation:
Portrait of a Learner
"The Portrait of a Learner highlights the journey, focusing on the growth of competencies, values, and mindsets — such as critical thinking, empathy, creativity, collaboration, and resilience — that students build throughout their time at the school. This approach aligns closely with the school’s mission and daily life, helping shape students’ experiences and fostering a culture of continuous development."
Portrait of a Graduate
"The Portrait of a Graduate, on the other hand, emphasizes the destination, defining the qualities, skills, and character traits students carry with them as they step into the world. It serves as a powerful reflection of the school’s long-term aspirations for its students, highlighting the results of a well-rounded education and the collective experience."
Portrait of a Trustee
The Portrait of a Trustee "outlines the qualities and responsibilities necessary for individual trustees to effectively contribute to stewardship. This framework transcends traditional governance and fiduciary oversight by emphasizing essential traits such as strategic thinking, ethical stewardship, generative leadership, and a deep commitment to the school’s core values. By clearly defining these expectations, the Portrait of a Trustee fosters a board culture rooted in collaboration, accountability, and visionary leadership."
In his article, Mike Cobb describes all the Portraits and I particularly appreciate that he includes Portrait of a Classroom /Learning Space as part of the constellation. Boards don't spend enough time discussing how their physical spaces will support the needs and aspirations of teaching, learning and belonging in the future. I hope you will join our upcoming webinar on November 19th to understand more about that.
This was a great article that you can use with your HOS and Board to guide your own development of your North Star constellation.
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