Whether former students or those just in need of an alternative education setting, students at Dowagiac’s Adult and Alternative Education program, known as Pathfinders, are becoming high school graduates.

Pathfinders provides a flexible learning environment and unique opportunities that help students achieve their goal of acquiring that critical high school diploma.

When a student enters the program, the first step is a one-on-one meeting with Pathfinders Director Sara Park, to determine how many credits are needed to complete the program. Then, the student and Park work together to come up with a plan that is realistic, and that works with the student’s schedule and goals. Students can opt to study one subject at a time, and focus on that class alone, or students who thrive better with a little variety can mix it up by studying several different classes at once.

With the capability of what is known as a “seat-time waiver”, students also have the option of working on their classes from home.

“We can log in to the online program, and see that the students are working at home, and monitor their progress,” Park said.

For students who are looking for a more traditional educational setting, Pathfinders offers classrooms with enough personal computers for each student, high-speed internet, busing, and lunch, as well as the opportunity for one-on-one instruction from one of the certified staff who are always on site.

The curriculum conforms to high school-equivalent coursework.

“It is not easy,” Park said. “These students work incredibly hard. They know they want a diploma, and they really work to make that a reality for themselves.”

Pathfinders is proven to be an excellent option for students who for whatever reason were not able to complete a high school education in a traditional setting.  And, to celebrate that important achievement, Pathfinders students walk, in cap and gown, at a high school graduation ceremony. Regardless of a person’s background, age, race, or income, anyone can earn a high school diploma through Pathfinders.  As Superintendent of Dowagiac Union Schools Paul Hartsig says,

“A high school diploma is an absolute necessity in today’s world,” said DUS Superintendent Paul Hartsig. “We are proud of each and every one of our graduates, and we are honored to be part of such an important achievement in their lives.”