A coordinated, closed-loop system aligning student preparation, employer capacity, and apprenticeship outcomes — from K–12 to living-wage careers — for economically disadvantaged students with disabilities and underserved youth.
The Pathways Model
Pathways transforms K–12 education into a connected, equitable pipeline — where students gain not only exposure, but real experience, targeted pathway options, employer connections, and funded routes into long-term employment and independence.
See How It Works →Pathways transforms K–12 education into a connected, equitable pipeline from classroom to career — where students gain not only exposure, but real experience, targeted pathway options, employer connections, and funded routes into long-term employment and independence.
Program Structure
Delivered through three tightly aligned components that function as a closed-loop system — ensuring preparation leads directly to real opportunities.
A student-facing pipeline that prepares SWD for any and all WBL and pre-apprenticeship opportunities through progressive career exposure, skill-building, and structured experiences across all grade bands.
Explore component →An occupation-specific pathway engaging students in applied, industry-aligned training in Graphic Arts — preparing them for WBL and pre-apprenticeship in a high-demand, accessible sector.
Explore component →An employer-facing system that builds capacity among NYC employers to begin or expand hosting of WBL, pre-apprenticeships, and registered apprenticeships — with special support for accommodations.
Explore component →Design Principles
The Pathways system is designed to work within and strengthen existing NYC and NYS systems — not replace them.
Pathways integrates into CDOS standards, CTE program requirements, and NYCDOE-approved WBL activities without displacing existing infrastructure.
A unified Pathway Portfolio captures STEAM artifacts, IEP Transition and WBL engagements, and career readiness documentation — eliminating duplicative processes.
All components align to NYC's priority on apprenticeship pipelines and earn-and-learn models, connecting students to living-wage careers in in-demand occupations.
Integration with Care Coordination Organizations and Life Plans extends impact beyond school, unlocking Medicaid Waiver-funded employment supports after graduation.
Captures student progression, WBL participation, credential attainment, and apprenticeship and employment outcomes aligned with NYC workforce strategy.
Full infrastructure including professional development for WBL coordinators, guidance on compliant internship structures, and IEP transition alignment.
Grade-Band Progression
Pathways establishes a coherent, developmentally sequenced pipeline from early education through postsecondary transition and employment.
| Grade Band | Phase | Core Activities | Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Grades | Career Awareness & Exposure | Career exploration, understanding purpose of work, foundational academic and communication skills | CDOS, K–12 curriculum |
| Middle School | Career Exploration | Job shadowing, mentorship, project-based learning tied to real industries; identifying best-fit pathways | CDOS, WBL Activities Grid |
| High School 9–12 | Career Preparation & WBL | Internships, applied projects, employer-connected experiences; credit-bearing and credential-aligned | CTE, NYSED WBL requirements |
| Transition (12–21+) | True Transition Readiness | IEP transition planning, postsecondary goals, family engagement, OPWDD Life Plan integration | NYCPS DIAL, ACCESS-VR, OPWDD |
Who We Serve
Pathways prioritizes historically underserved populations, combining high-quality WBL experiences with wraparound supports and system navigation.
Advisory Committee
Key industry experts and collaborators representing employers, intermediaries, youth service agencies, schools, and community-based partners guide and validate the program.