October 3, 2022 -- Columbus City Schools (CCS) students will once again have an opportunity to sharpen their skills through immersive, hands-on lessons while also experiencing some of the city’s top family-friendly sites during this year’s Pathway Express initiative.
Pathway Express is an academic enrichment initiative taking learning beyond the classroom walls while creating fun and unforgettable memories. The initiative began last year as a reimagined Saturday Academy for all CCS students, with thousands of families participating each month.
Pathway Express kicks off in October this year and runs quarterly through May. Students will explore the Ohio History Center, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Ohio State Capitol building, and the Franklin Park Conservatory.
“I am so excited about our Pathway Express partnerships this year. It is truly a representation of the community coming together to support our students,” said CCS Superintendent Dr. Talisa Dixon. “We are working with our partners to create unique learning opportunities for our students - because we know what they are capable of - we must set them up for success.”
Each Pathway Express event is highlighted by a Family and Community Resource Day aimed at connecting families with partnership opportunities available through the district. Hosted during the second weekend at each stop, families can expect interactive activities, unique giveaways, and take-home learning resources.
The District will host its first Family and Community Resource Day on Sunday, October 9, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Ohio History Center, 800 E. 17th Avenue.
CCS families and students participating in Pathway Express will gain many benefits, including experiential learning opportunities, a glimpse into work students are doing throughout the year, fun activities, giveaways, prizes, and more. Each month, these host locations partnering with CCS will provide free weekend access for students and their families.
Additionally, students will embody Portrait of a Graduate attributes, with each event having corresponding themes of Adaptability, Communication, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Global Empathy, and Technology.
“The pursuit of education never goes out of style,” said Brianne Pannell, director of extended learning, leading the Pathway Express initiative. “Pathway Express is a physical representation of our district’s shift in how students learn. This approach incorporates problem-solving, creative communication, and asking and answering questions. The experience also leaves unforgettable impressions on students, crystallizing knowledge gained as they participate in these immersive experiences.”
Visit the Pathway Express page for more information about the District’s Pathway Express Program.
