Across New York State, an important conversation is unfolding about a new educational initiative. Called NY Inspires, this is more than a policy change; it aims to ensure every student graduates from high school ready to thrive in college, career, and as a contributing member of society.

In January, the District hosted two Coffee & Conversation sessions focused on NY Inspires, providing an overview of the initiative and what it means for Penfield. 

“For decades, earning a diploma meant meeting a checklist of credits and passing a series of Regents exams. While that system served many students well, it does not reflect the diverse talents, interests, and needs of all learners,” said Dr. Leslie Maloney, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, who led the sessions. “NY Inspires seeks to change that by creating a more flexible, equitable, and student-centered approach.”

The Heart of the Transformation: Portrait of a Graduate

At the heart of NY Inspires is Portrait of a Graduate—a framework that defines six essential attributes every student should develop before leaving high school. These qualities go beyond test scores; they focus on skills and mindsets that matter in the real world, including critical thinking, innovation, and cultural responsiveness.

What Will Change?

The changes introduced by NY Inspires will significantly reshape the student experience by making education more personalized and future-focused. Instead of relying solely on passing Regents exams and earning credits through traditional seat time, students will have multiple ways to demonstrate their learning including through projects, internships, and work-based experiences. Students will also engage with new learning priorities like financial literacy and climate education. The move to a single New York State High School Diploma ensures that all graduates are recognized equally, while seals and endorsements will provide opportunities for students to showcase advanced achievements.

While the Regents exams will still be administered; students will not be required to pass specific Regents Exams in order to graduate, Maloney explained.

Why This Matters

The changes encompassed within NY Inspires are about opportunity. By removing barriers like mandatory Regents exams and redefining what counts as a “credit,” NY Inspires opens doors for students to learn in ways that reflect their strengths and aspirations. 

“This is a framework designed to honor individuality while maintaining high expectations for all,” Maloney said.

When Will These Changes Occur?

The changes outlined in NY Inspires will roll out gradually over the next several years to allow schools and families time to prepare. Milestones include:

• 2026–2027 School Year: Instruction in financial literacy will start for middle and high school students.
• 2027-2028 School Year: Climate education will begin for students. Diploma assessment requirements will be sunset, meaning students will no longer need to pass Regents exams to graduate, though the exams will still be offered. 
• Fall 2027: New York will move to one high school diploma, replacing the current system of multiple diploma types, with seals and endorsements recognizing advanced achievements. 
• 2029-2030 School Year: Schools will be required to fully align instruction to the Portrait of a Graduate, ensuring every graduate demonstrates proficiency in its six key attributes alongside the State learning standards.

Looking Ahead

Maloney said Penfield is already taking steps to align with this vision. This is the third year that students have had the opportunity to earn the Seal of Biliteracy. The District also plans to utilize the Portrait of a Graduate as a framework when writing and revising curriculum. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, ninth graders will be required to take a Career & Financial Management course, addressing the financial literacy requirement. Students will also have the chance to earn the Seal of Civic Readiness. The District will continue to provide updates on the progress of NY Inspires from both the perspectives of New York State and at Penfield. Building leaders will begin working with teachers to explore how they can weave the new standards into curriculum.

“As always, we appreciate the support of our Penfield community and in collaboration, through NY Inspires, we are building a future where every student can succeed,” Maloney said.

Learn More

• Information about NY Inspires at Penfield
• FAQs and more at the New York State Education’s Department site