Overview
New York is building the foundation for high school transformation through efforts to expand engaging, relevant learning experiences and strengthen pathways to success after graduation. In 2024, state leaders launched NY Inspires, an initiative to reconsider how students demonstrate their learning and readiness for the future. As part of this work, the state adopted a Portrait of a Graduate in 2025 that identifies essential knowledge and skills students should develop before graduating high school. State leaders are also considering changes to diploma requirements, including how students earn credits and demonstrate their learning, with implementation expected to unfold over several years.
Efforts to rethink the high school experience are also underway at the local level. New York City Public Schools is advancing initiatives such as Imagine NYC Schools and FutureReadyNYC, including high school redesign efforts in partnership with XQ. These initiatives engage students, teachers, families, and community members to design high school models that prepare every student for a range of postsecondary options and opportunities.
To build on this work, state leaders could consider creating greater flexibility from seat time requirements and explore opportunities for a statewide initiative with dedicated resources to incentivize community-led high school redesign.
