The Pathways to Success Program awards scholarships to low income students to attend boarding and day schools that are Partner Schools. Partner Schools are carefully screened by Commonweal to ensure the schools offer an enriching and supportive school environment for our Pathways Scholars. Partner Schools offer the opportunity to increase academic skills, gain work experience, and expand knowledge of life beyond the students’ local communities. These schools provide a quality college preparatory curriculum, work skills and social guidance in a faith based environment.
Partner Schools review and approve scholarship applications and funds are distributed directly to the school. Pathways Program staff members visit Pathways Scholars at their schools, review academic progress, and monitor participation in employment or community service programs.
Scholarship awards may be used at any one of the Partner Schools. Returning students may apply to renew their scholarships each year until they graduate. When renewing scholarships, Pathways considers student progress and demonstrated need.
Scholarship Eligibility and Application
Students are required to meet the following criteria:
- Are new to the boarding/day school experience
- Are entering grades 9 through 12
- Show a need and a strong desire to change their school situation
- Have the potential to be successful in a regular or accelerated classroom setting
- Have a family income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Are willing to participate in work and community service opportunities
After being accepted at a Pathways Partner School students may submit an application for the scholarship to the Partner School. Each Partner School has all the information needed to apply.
Once a student is approved, students agree to:
- Remain in good standing academically and socially (Report cards are sent to the Pathways office.)
- Work to assist with school expenses (Students 14 and 15 years old must complete 380 hours per year; students 16 years and older, 680 hours. In a few cases, community service may be substituted for paid employment during the academic year.)
Pathways Scholars
Students who become Pathways Scholars join a community of students across the country. As a participant, Pathways Scholars enjoy the following benefits:
- Have their birthdays recognized
- Receive monthly PathNote newsletters
- Meet with Pathways program staff when they visit Partner Schools
- Share a celebration meal with Pathways staff
- Participate in services provided by the Pathways Program at your school
PathNotes - Newsletter
Click on a link below to see the Pathways to Successmonthly newsletter featuring student news and study tips sent to families;
For more information, please contact program staff: pathways@cweal.org or 240-450-0000.