What is Guided Pathways?
Guided Pathways is an equity-centered framework designed to improve student success by redesigning the student experience. It helps students explore, enter, and complete programs that lead to meaningful careers and further education.
Washington State’s Vision:
To ensure all students—particularly those historically underserved—have clear pathways to credentials, support to reach their goals, and a system that actively works to remove barriers.
Each of these represents a key area of reform:
Onboarding and Entry – Supporting students in choosing and entering a path
Advising and Student Support – Providing coordinated, proactive support
Program Mapping and Career Alignment – Linking every program to employment or transfer
Teaching and Learning – Ensuring high-quality learning aligned with student goals
Equity-Centered Practices – Transforming structures to address systemic inequities