What Does a Graduate of FPD Look Like?
By Dr. Barry Shealy, Assistant Headmaster
First Presbyterian Day School is recognized nationwide for its unwavering commitment to its mission: “to educate and equip students to change the world for God’s glory.” This mission guides every decision at FPD—from daily operations to board-level strategy—and is brought to life through our Core Values, Core Principles for Curriculum and Instruction, and Profile of a Christian Educator.
In recent years, educational consultants have encouraged FPD to define its ultimate goal: What is the product of our program? In other words, if our graduates are the “product” of our school, can we articulate what we are intentionally working to develop in each student? The result of this reflection is the FPD Profile of a Graduate, a clear description of the attributes our school strives to instill in every graduate—through both academics and extracurricular opportunities—when student and family engage with the mission.
This Profile isn’t merely aspirational; it reflects what FPD is designed to produce. After thoughtful discussion among faculty, administration, and other stakeholders, six core characteristics emerged that have long been present at FPD, even if not previously written down. These qualities reflect our mission-directed focus and shape every aspect of our school program.
The Profile of a Graduate:
Lifelong Learner
A student who is academically prepared with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind needed for success in college, career preparation, and independent learning throughout life.
Challenged by the Gospel
A graduate who is grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, equipped to grow spiritually, and able to understand and apply a Biblical worldview and ethic.
Equipped for Wellness
An individual prepared with the understanding and practices needed to live a healthy, responsible, and balanced lifestyle in mind, body, and spirit.
Self-Aware and Growing
A graduate who confidently develops academic, artistic, and athletic gifts, uses them for meaningful impact, and values the talents of others.
Engaged and Persuasive
A graduate able to participate thoughtfully and winsomely in the marketplace of ideas, engaging as both a listener and communicator. This includes the ability to understand, critique, and challenge differing worldviews while collaborating with people of varied backgrounds—always maintaining integrity of beliefs.
Sensitive to Others
A graduate who is mindful of the needs of others and committed to serving their community in meaningful ways.
Final Encouragement
At FPD, we believe that this Profile reflects our mission in action. As students grow in these attributes, they are prepared to make a difference for God’s glory wherever they go.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)