Portrait of a Panther
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The Portrait of a Panther describes the skills, habits, and character we want every Babylon student to carry with them when they graduate. It guides teaching and learning from kindergarten through grade 12. This page also explains the credits and exams students need for a New York State diploma, and how those requirements are changing.
The Portrait of a Panther:
The Portrait of a Panther is built on the six attributes of New York State’s Portrait of a Graduate. Babylon brings each one to life through local meaning, visible evidence, and intentional experiences in every grade, so every graduate leaves ready for college, careers, and life in their community.
Academically Prepared:
Demonstrates a strong foundation in the New York State learning standards and is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in college, careers, civic engagement, service, and life.
Creative Innovator:
Uses imagination, curiosity, and flexible thinking to solve problems creatively and develop new ideas and products, while adapting to changing circumstances and challenges.
Critical Thinker:
Analyzes information thoughtfully, evaluates evidence critically, and identifies patterns and connections across content areas to address complex issues and navigate the world with insight.
Effective Communicator:
Shares ideas clearly and confidently through speaking, writing, and different types of media, while engaging with diverse audiences and actively listening to different perspectives.
Global Citizen:
Acts responsibly and ethically in local, global, and digital communities, using civic knowledge, skills, and mindsets to contribute positively to a culturally diverse, democratic society.
Reflective and Future Focused:
Reflects on strengths and areas for growth, sets meaningful goals, maintains supportive relationships, and makes responsible decisions that prioritize social, emotional, and mental well-being.
Attribute descriptions are adapted from the New York State Portrait of a Graduate.
Graduation Requirements Are Changing:
New York State is updating what students need to graduate through its NY Inspires plan. Students already in high school continue to follow the current requirements below.
For the latest details, see NY Inspires from the New York State Education Department.
Diploma Requirements:
The Regents Diploma and Advanced Designation requirements apply to students who entered grade 9 before fall 2027.
Regents Diploma:
Credits- English Language Arts
- Algebra I
- Global History
- U.S. History
- One science: Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry, or Physics
- World Language Checkpoint A
Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation:
Credits- English Language Arts
- Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II/Trigonometry
- Global History
- U.S. History
- Two sciences: Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry, or Physics
- World Language Checkpoints A and B
New Requirements:
Class of 2031 and later, students entering grade 9 in fall 2027CreditsRegents exams are planned to no longer be required. Final requirements will be posted once the Board of Regents adopts them.
Students with disabilities: every diploma type, including the local diploma, requires the appropriate 22 units of credit. See graduation requirements and exiting credentials for students with disabilities.
Resources:
Questions about graduation requirements?
Call the Office of Curriculum and Instruction or the Counseling Center, or share feedback through Babylon Talks.
