Preparing Students for Today’s World

By: Emmanuel Caulk
Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent

You have big dreams for your children. As the superintendent of the Fayette County Public Schools, I do too.
I want the students who graduate from FCPS to receive more than just a high school diploma. And that’s why, from kindergarten through 12th grade, our students have opportunity and access to a rigorous curriculum that goes beyond reading, math, science and social studies to include art, music, world language, technology and physical education.
In our vision for a world-class system of great schools, every student attends a safe and inviting school where they are welcomed by caring and committed staff and engaged in challenging learning activities.
Students have opportunities to build on their interests and expand their understanding of the world through multi-disciplinary experiences in the classroom and beyond. Each child receives individualized attention and encouragement, as they are pushed to achieve their personal best.
In 2016, we asked families about their dreams for their children and used that vision to develop our portrait of a FCPS graduate – one who is Academically Prepared, College and Career Ready, Culturally Competent, Civically Engaged and Equipped for the Future.
Our 2019 Annual Survey of Families found that 85% of constituents agree that those are the attributes our students need to be successful in the future.
Providing a world-class education in a constantly changing world means our students must graduate from high school able to think critically, work in teams to solve problems, and communicate effectively.
In particular, families emphasized the importance of collaboration and communication skills – especially those involving communicating across different viewpoints and cultures.
All students must have access to a strong curriculum that enables them to develop academic proficiency and technical skills to be successful. Students also need resiliency, social skills and critical thinking skills to excel in their chosen fields.
Finally, all students should be equipped to actively participate in our community and make the world a better place. Graduates should have the tools needed to fulfill civic responsibilities, contribute to society, value inclusiveness, and reflect on the world around them and take action.
Today’s students will hold jobs that do not yet exist, use technology that has not yet been invented, and solve problems that haven’t yet been identified. We must equip our students to navigate an increasingly global environment where the competition for talent is fierce.
There was a time when people worked for the same employer their entire lives. The U.S. economy is not like that now.
Our students won’t graduate from high school or college knowing everything they’ll need for the jobs they’ll hold in their lifetimes. Instead, they need to be able to conduct research and work with others to find the answers they seek.