MISSION STATEMENT - CORE BELIEFS AND VALUES Portsmouth High School’s core values of Excellence, Community, Commitment, and Leadership provide the cornerstones we strive for as a community of learners. With these core values firmly in place, Portsmouth High School graduates are well-positioned to take on challenges and opportunities in our global society. At Portsmouth High School we believe: - Students are important and must be challenged in rigorous and relevant ways in order to reach their highest potential. - Students will strive for excellence in an environment that fosters a strong sense of belonging and creates partnerships between students and adults. - Students learn best when they explore and contribute to their own education. - Students are able to achieve in a safe and caring environment where student success is celebrated. - Students will become life-long learners when taught to think critically, to effectively analyze information, and to be respectful of others. - Students should have exposure to a rich and broad program of studies, have learning experiences outside of the classroom, and have an understanding of an individual’s place in the global environment. - Students at Portsmouth High School will meet or exceed the following 21st Century Learning Expectations in order to be college and career ready upon graduation: Academic - Communicate effectively - Think Critically - Utilize appropriate tools and information to solve problems - Set personal and academic goals - Approach challenges with creativity and innovation Social - Work collaboratively - Work independently Civic - Engage in the classroom and the community