Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pathways?

The Medford School District Pathways Program provides students with the opportunity to personalize their high school experience with learning that can lead to a career of interest. Students take 3 credits in a single subject area. They earn an industry recognized certificate or college credit. They can also earn a graduation honors cord by participating in a relevant club or activity and a work-based or service learning project.

What type of Pathways are offered at the Medford School District?

See the list here.

Why should a student be in a Pathway?

Pathways make learning relevant and help students plan their next steps after high school. By taking many classes and having many experiences in one subject, students gain knowledge, skills, and credentials for employment, scholarships, apprenticeships, or college entry. Local employers have said they would definitely interview a student if they saw relevant, advanced learning on their resume, giving students a leg up in the hiring process.

When should my student select a Pathway?

Students can select a Pathway at the end of their 8th grade year. All students should select a Pathway by the end of their freshman year.

Can my student switch their Pathway?

Yes. A student can switch their Pathway during their high school career, if they decide that another Pathway is more suitable to their interests.

Does a student need more credits to be in Pathways?

No. All students are required to complete 24 credits to graduate. Pathways help students become involved with other like-minded students and co-curricular activities while being surrounded by caring adults.

Does a student have to go into a career in their selected Pathway?

No. A Pathway is simply letting a student explore an area of interest.

Is a Pathway required for a student graduate?

No, but Medford School District believes that by choosing a pathway, students will be much more engaged in their entire high school experience, better prepared for their futures, and more likely to graduate with an understanding of their knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Are there Pathways in the skilled trades?

Yes! Medford School District has 19 CTE programs of study, including Pathways in construction, automotive, agriculture, manufacturing, and more! See the full list here.

Are all Pathways part of CTE?

No. Medford School District offers a variety of Pathways for students with all kinds of interests and skills including arts, humanities, mathematics, science, and more! See the full list here.

Do students earn college credit while in their Pathway?

Some Pathways include courses that offer dual credit or Advanced Placement testing. Other Pathways do not offer dual credit, but every student can pursue college credit in a variety of ways, regardless of their Pathway. Click here for more information about Medford School District's college credit options.

Are students required to work in these industries while in high school?

No, students may continue to participate in a normal school day and activities; however, they may choose to begin work in these industries while in high school as part of a cooperative education program. To earn an honors cord in their Pathway, students are required to complete a work-based or service learning experience. This experience does not need to include paid employment.

Have you thought about collaborating with local trade organizations and/or community colleges?

Yes! Medford School District has partnerships with Rogue Community College, Crater Lake Electrical Training Center, WorkSource Oregon, Rogue Workforce Partnership, and others. There are many ways a business can help students. If you are a representative of a business that would like to be more engaged, please contact Larina Warnock for information. . 

Does this mean a student has to choose a career while in high school?

No. A Pathway is simply letting a student explore an area of interest. A student can also switch their Pathway during their high school career if they decide that another Pathway is more suitable to their interests.