Resource Library

The more than $2 billion in state funding for Golden State Pathways (GSP) program and dual enrollment is a critical investment in youth during their decade of difference, a period from ages 14 to 24, when research shows young people develop their identities, dispositions, and lifelong aspirations. In California, too many are disconnecting from learning and their potential during this formative time, a reality exacerbated by the pandemic. We cannot afford to lose this talent.

Communications, Policy

Linked Learning pathways deliver high-quality academics in concert with career-technical education and work-based learning opportunities, access to early college credit, and integrated student supports. First piloted in nine California districts in 2009, Linked Learning is now embraced as the high school strategy for a growing number of districts across the state and beyond. Today Linked Learning is at work in more than 80 California school districts, with 600 educational pathways operating in 250 schools, and reaches more than 330,000 students statewide.

Communications, General

The decade between ages 14 & 24 is crucial for young people and for the future of the workforce. Education leaders should help make a seamless transition from middle school to high school, college and careers, writes All4Ed's Deborah S. Delisle and Linked Learning Alliance's Anne Stanton.

Communications, Stories, College & Career Readiness

The proposed $2 billion in funding for Golden State Pathways and dual enrollment in Gov. Gavin Newsom’s 2022-23 budget is a vital investment in California’s young people at a pivotal stage of their development — and in the workforce that’s counting on these adolescents to help them innovate and grow, writes Long Beach USD Superintendent Jill Baker and Oakland USD Superintendent Kayla Johnson-Trammell.

Communications, Stories, College & Career Readiness, Policy

The pandemic exacerbated teacher shortages that must be addressed, and it also shined a light on the need to find new ways to engage and empower our young people. With thoughtful implementation to reach the communities and students who need it most, Golden State Pathways promises to help us do both, writes Teach Plus California's Sarah Lillis and Linked Learning Alliance's Anne Stanton.

Communications, Stories, Career-Technical Education, College & Career Readiness, Lessons Learned, Policy

Pathway Improvement, College & Career Readiness, Lessons Learned

Linked Learning Middle School Standards represent an extension of the evidence-based Linked Learning standards for high-quality college and career preparation. Designed to engage students in real-world learning experiences connecting core academics to career awareness and exploration, the Linked Learning Middle School Standards will prepare students to succeed in high school and beyond.

The standards provide educators with a framework for middle school college and career preparation aligned to high school Linked Learning pathways and the rigorous academic expectations of a college prep curriculum, setting the stage for high school and postsecondary success.

Pathway Improvement, Certification

The Golden State Pathway program builds on our state’s existing pathways to college and career while fostering a shared vision of student success. Communities have an opportunity to bring together existing programs and approaches under the umbrella of Golden State Pathways to create coherent, engaging, supportive pathways toward postsecondary achievement.

Policy

LEAs participating in the Golden State Pathways Program can use this framework as guidance to develop sustainable new pathways or expand current pathways.

Curriculum & Instruction, Policy