Career pathways are intended to help guide students into relevant classes and community based learning experiences. They allow the exploration of general areas of interest as well as a focus on specific careers. Pathways guide those who want to go to college, to technical schools or directly into the workforce after high school.
        The selection of a career path is based on the assumption that all students will enter the workforce at sometime in their lives. Opportunities to explore pathways, based on areas of interest or talent in high school, help provide a sense of relevancy and motivation as students focus on course selection and other career related opportunities.
        It is important to make sure that career path selection is not restrictive but rather expansive. The selection allows more focus for students as they make choices. Students will be able to bridge-over to other pathways if their interests change. Pathways should also make clear that entry into careers can come at different points for people-right after high school, after two years of technical training or after a college degree.
        After selecting a career pathway, probably at the end of the sophomore year, students are encouraged to consider selecting courses based on pathway interests and entry level plans. For example, those interested in entering a career which requires an advanced degree will not only want to take recommended courses for that career pathway but also appropriate courses to gain admission to a college or university. Job shadowing or mentoring experiences directly related to a pathway are recommended to help the student gain insights into the career area.
        Students select a career pathway based on interests, abilities, aptitudes and past performance and use these to develop their FOUR YEAR PLAN. It is hoped that by identifying a student's career interests, aligning the student in a CAREER PATH, and developing a sequenced career plan, that each student will set goals and prepare to enter the world of work, go on to a community college or technical school, and/or successfully complete a four year college or university.