Definition: 

Our students will be imaginative and explore original ideas and innovative solutions by transcending traditional thoughts, patterns, and relationships.

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

Creativity is a fundamental human ability that empowers individuals to think critically, solve complex problems, and innovate in an ever-evolving world. Recognizing the impact this impact on personal and professional success, Creativity is incorporated into both our core values and our Portrait of a Graduate. This reflects our commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares students to thrive within the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. By nurturing creativity within our schools, we empower our graduates to think critically, innovate boldly, and lead with confidence to keep our community strong.

Definition: Our students will be agile in thoughts and actions, responding productively to positive and negative feedback while balancing diverse views to reach workable solutions.

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

Adaptability is a fundamental skill that Affton graduates need to thrive and succeed in various aspects of life. In both professional and personal relationships, adaptability helps our students better understand and accommodate the diverse perspectives and needs of people they interact with, making them effective team members and communicators. Similarly, adaptability is essential for success in continued education and the ever-changing job market. The demands of college or vocational programs can be vastly different from high school, requiring students to adapt to new learning habits and environments. In the workforce, success hinges on the ability to adapt to changes in industry demands. Encouraging adaptability will prepare our graduates to face whatever challenges and opportunities the future may hold.

Definition: Our students will effectively express thoughts and ideas using spoken, written, digital, and nonverbal skills while being active listeners able to decipher meaning and intention.

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

Communication is essential skill vital in today's interconnected world. Effective communication is foundational for workplace success, collaborative efforts, informed citizenship, and relationship building. Moreover, it aids in critical expression, media literacy, adaptability, personal branding, conflict resolution, and cultural competence. By emphasizing Communication, we ensure that our graduates are poised to navigate diverse challenges in higher education, their careers, and as global citizens.

Definition: Our students will demonstrate awareness, sensitivity, concern, and respect for others' feelings, opinions, experiences, culture, and differences through connection, understanding, and compassion.

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

In the journey from classrooms to careers, the ability to connect with others on a deep and compassionate level is an invaluable asset. Empathy is not just a personal virtue; it is a professional competency that shapes positive communication, collaborative teamwork, and effective conflict resolution. As students graduate and step into the dynamic world of work, empathy becomes a guiding force for understanding diverse perspectives, fostering innovation, and building meaningful relationships. In an era where collaboration is paramount, empathetic individuals contribute to positive work environments, enhance customer service interactions, and navigate cultural diversity with ease.  Encouraging empathy in our students is an investment in their future success, as it equips them with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized and interconnected workforce where respect for others' experiences and cultures is paramount.

Definition: Our students will analyze and apply evidence-based reasoning to understand “big picture” challenges and how solutions may impact other parts of a system.

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

Critical thinking is not just a skill for solving problems; it's a key to unlocking a future where our students can thrive and make meaningful contributions to the challenges of tomorrow. In an era of rapid technological advancements and dynamic workplaces, critical thinking equips our students with the capacity to adapt to change, fostering a mindset of continuous learning and innovation. Beyond problem-solving, it encourages a holistic understanding of complex challenges, emphasizing the interconnectedness of systems and the broader implications of decisions. As our students graduate, armed with the power of critical thinking, they are well-prepared to navigate the intricacies of diverse careers, contribute to creative solutions, and excel as adaptive and insightful professionals.

Definition: Our students will value and engage diverse cultures and unique perspectives through mutual respect and open dialogue while taking responsible action to make the world a better place.  

Why Did We Choose This As A Competency?

Growing up in a small school district provides a strong foundation of close-knit relationships and a deep sense of community, but the world beyond our familiar borders is diverse and interconnected. As our graduates venture into the global stage, they gain the opportunity to be ambassadors of our community values, equipped with a powerful blend of urban dynamism and small-town warmth. Embracing global citizenship means understanding the interconnectedness of our world, being informed about global issues, and actively contributing to positive change. It opens doors to collaboration, innovation, and a broader understanding of the rich tapestry of humanity. By striving to be global citizens, our graduates not only carry the spirit of our close-knit community with them but also become catalysts for building bridges, fostering understanding, and making a positive impact on a global scale. In doing so, they carry the essence of our close-knit community into the global community, embodying the best of both worlds.