Application period for locally-created graduation pathways now open
06/08/2018

After the State Board of Education passed the new graduation pathways requirements last December, the board will now start considering applications for both the locally-created pathways and the local Career and Technical Education (CTE) concentrators. Applications will come before the board on a rolling basis beginning in July through November for the 2018 – 19 school year.

Locally-created pathways are intended to offer students more flexibility to pursue postsecondary education and careers specific to their individual interests. Local pathways are also supposed to provide schools flexibility in meeting pathway requirements since not all schools will be able to offer every single option for internships, apprenticeships and academic courses.

Both the locally-created pathway and local CTE concentrator must be designed in collaboration with business and industry, postsecondary institutions or community organizations. The local CTE concentrator must be aligned with regional high-wage, high-demand data and lead to an industry-recognized credential, certification, credits toward a degree or employment.

If approved, the local plans become part of a state library of resources that all schools may utilize. The pathways will begin with incoming high school students for 2019 for the graduating cohort of 2023. Although some schools may opt-in early in place of the Graduation Qualifying Exam, if they currently have the capacity to provide the pathway options.

The full list of pathway requirements can be found on the State Board of Education’s website.

Stay posted for updates as applications are reviewed in the coming months.