Frequently Asked Questions
What are College and Career Pathways?
College and Career Pathways are specialized four-year programs for high school students that integrate rigorous academic core subject area courses with Career Technical Education (CTE). These programs focus on preparing students for both college and career by offering hands-on, real-world learning experiences aligned with specific industry sectors. At PUSD, there are 14 open-choice Pathways that eighth grade students can choose from that are designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in post-secondary education and the workforce.
What is the purpose of the Pathways program?
The Pathways program provides early exposure to broaden students’ awareness of a wide range of options within industry sectors. The goal is not to lock students into a path but to open up future opportunities.
What kind of success do students experience by being in a Pathway?
Students in PUSD Pathways experience outstanding success. Pathway students have a 99% graduation rate, a 93% college-going rate, and a 98% attendance rate. They also score higher on state English and Math CAASPP tests compared to non-Pathway students. In addition to strong academic performance, thousands of internships are completed each year, providing hands-on, real-world experience. Many students also earn industry-recognized certifications in their chosen fields, giving them a competitive edge for both college and career.
Will the student be a full-time student on the campus of the Pathway they are enrolled in?
Yes, if accepted, the student will be a full-time student at the high school where their Pathway is located.
Can a student be in AVID and a Pathway?
Yes. Additionally, many Pathways embed AVID strategies into their programs to support student success. The overall goal of Pathways is to prepare students for both college and career—ensuring they are ready for a wide range of future opportunities.
Can a student participate in extracurricular activities at the high school of their Pathway?
Yes, students will have the opportunity to participate in high school extracurricular activities (e.g., sports, band, etc.) offered at the high school of their Pathway.
What kind of courses are students enrolled in through the Pathways program?
Students are enrolled in a college-prep core set of courses to meet A-G UC/CSU acceptance eligibility standards, along with a Career Technical Education (CTE) course every year of high school.
Is there a screening process to apply or be accepted into a Pathway?
No, there is no screening process for applying or being accepted into a Pathway program. All that is required is that the student applies on time (the deadline to sign up is January 15th) and has an interest in the Pathway theme. Pathways are designed to be inclusive and accessible to all students who want to explore college and career opportunities within a specific industry sector.
Can students apply to a Pathway regardless of where they live?
Yes, regardless of residential boundaries, students have open access to apply to the Pathway of their interest and choice.
Does the district provide transportation for Pathway students?
Yes, Porterville Unified School District is committed to providing transportation to campus within PUSD residential boundary areas.
Who can apply for Pathways, and when are applications available?
Applications are available for current 8th graders / incoming 9th graders. Both online and paper versions will be available beginning in early October.
Where can students get and submit Pathways applications?
Students or parents can submit a Pathway application online through the Pathways website, please click here. Applications are available in Spanish and English. Hard Copy applications (in English and Spanish) can be obtained at all middle schools or downloaded here. Completed applications can be returned to:
- The PUSD Pathways Office (600 West Grand Avenue, Porterville, CA 93257)
- A student's middle school office
How many Pathways can students apply for?
Applicants are allowed to apply to their top two Pathway choices, listing them in order of preference.
When are Pathways applications due, and how are students selected?
All Pathways applications are due by January 15th, 2025, at 12:00 PM noon. The only requirement is turning the application in by the deadline. Pathways enrollment is not first-come, first-serve. If more applications are received than spaces allow, a random lottery will be held to determine acceptance.
What happens if an application is received after the deadline?
Applications received after the deadline will automatically be placed on a waiting list, pending if space is available.
How are students chosen if there are more applicants than openings?
Students will be chosen by a random lottery draw if there are more applicants than openings. All applications enter the same lottery, with no priority given to when the application is received (as long as it was received before the deadline).
Are there any priority acceptance rules?
Yes. Priority acceptance is given to siblings of currently enrolled students in the Pathway of choice. Also, In-district applicants are prioritized before out-of-district applicants.
When will applicants be notified about their status?
All applicants will receive a letter within two weeks of the application deadline stating their Pathway status update and providing further instructions.
