Learning Model:
Graduate Dispositions
In addition to a rigorous core academics curriculum, we also want to make sure that we are preparing our students to emerge as a new generation of leaders–ready to work across lines of difference, solve complex problems, and contribute to their communities in a meaningful way. We have defined a set of habits, characteristics and mind that we aim for all of our graduates to possess upon leaving Citizens of the World Charter Schools and we focus our curriculum in a way that maximizes the development of these skills. See below for more in-depth definitions of our Graduate Dispositions framework.
Self
These dispositions reflect the qualities our graduates will possess internally upon leaving Citizens of the World charter schools.
Together
These dispositions reflect the qualities our graduates demonstrate in relationship with others, both one-on-one and within communities.
World
These dispositions reflect the qualities our graduates demonstrate as they engage in the world at large.
Self-Understanding
Identifies and understands one’s own emotions, thoughts and behaviors. Understands one’s passions, strengths and limitations. Recognizes the impact of context and others’ perceptions, and uses self-awareness to respond thoughtfully. Engages in continuous self-reflection.
Self-Efficacy
Independent, disciplined and self-motivated. Consistently sets and achieves goals.
Critical Thinking
Analyzes, evaluates and applies information to ask questions, develop ideas, construct arguments and solve problems. Considers multiple perspectives, both from the past and present, when analyzing situations.
Adaptability
At ease with ambiguity and the unknown, knowing that it is an important step to finding clarity. Open-minded and able to manage rapid growth, change and disruption.
Connection
Expresses ideas and thoughts through verbal, nonverbal and written communication. Adjusts communication based on the purpose of the message, context and audience. Builds understanding by listening, asking questions, testing assumptions, and applying examples. Internalizes multiple viewpoints to inform communications.
Collaboration
Learns cooperatively with others to achieve a common or complementary goal. Encourages the contributions of others, through active listening, providing feedback and drawing on individual strengths. Responds to group dynamics, including issues of power and control.
Cultural Competency
Understands one’s own identity and story. Can initiate and build constructive relationships with others, across lines of difference. Understands issues of privilege and power, as well as one’s cultural norms and biases. Leads across diverse groups in different contexts, using an asset-based lens.
Empathy
Acts with kindness and compassion towards living and nonliving aspects of one’s environment. Senses how another person feels, and can take another’s perspective.
Systems Thinking
Sees the connections and relationships between things (people, places and ideas) over time. Identifies and predicts complex patterns of behavior. Connects seemingly unrelated ideas to solve problems, innovate, and imagine new ways.
Global Advocacy
Evaluates issues from multiple perspectives and identifies the role one can play to promote change locally and in the world. Acts courageously, making sacrifices for the greater good. Works alongside others as global citizens to pursue justice with shared respect for human dignity.
Lifelong Learning
Demonstrates curiosity and the desire to discover new things. Asks complex questions to develop understanding. Has deep and broad content knowledge.