Future-Preparedness Framework: A Cardinal’s Journey

students at graduation

students at graduation 1

Middle school boys

student at graduation

At MCPASD, we are committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and mindsets they need to thrive. Our Future-Preparedness Framework: A Cardinal’s Journey serves as a guide for student success — helping learners develop the adaptability, resilience, and critical skills required for their futures.

it's a comprehensive framework that outlines the key skills, competencies, and attributes students should develop by graduation, providing a clear roadmap for educational outcomes and student success.

Grounded in the Cardinal Mindset Curious, Community-Oriented, Self-Aware, and Accountable — and strengthened by our Cardinal Foundations of Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving, and Adaptability, this framework ensures that every student graduates ready to navigate the complexities of life, learning, and leadership.

A Cardinal’s Journey is about more than academic achievement; it’s about shaping confident, capable, and future-ready individuals who are prepared to innovate, contribute, and succeed in our communities. Explore our framework to see how we are preparing students today for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.

Cardinals Journey

Cardinal Mindset

The Cardinal Mindset guides how students learn and grow, helping them stay curious, connect with others, understand themselves, and take responsibility for their choices.

  • Curious

  • Community-Oriented

  • Self-Aware

  • Accountable

Cardinal Foundations

The Cardinal Foundations equip students with the essential skills needed to express ideas effectively, work collaboratively, analyze and solve problems, and adapt to new challenges with confidence.

  • Communication

  • Collaboration

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

  • Adaptability

A Cardinal’s Journey | Documents

Mindsets

Foundations

How did MCPASD develop A Cardinal's Journey?

A Cardinal’s Journey was the result of months of work from a team of stakeholders – including high school students, parents, community leaders, educators and administrators – who collaborated to develop a “portrait of a graduate” system for the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District. The team's extensive research and development culminated in A Cardinal’s Journey, which the Board of Education approved after careful review and deliberation.

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A Cardinal's Journey: Family FAQ