Pathways Expo Introduces Students to the Academies at ACHS

Rising ninth and tenth grade students and their families explored the Academies at Alexandria City and career pathway options at the first Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) Pathways Expo on Wed., Dec. 11, 2024, helping them make informed academic decisions and setting them up for future success.

The event took place at the Alexandria City High School (ACHS) King Street and Minnie Howard campuses and featured information sessions on each of the five academies and nearly 30 pathways at ACHS. ACPS partners were also on-site to discuss the various career possibilities and emphasize the importance of the valuable industry credentials that can be earned through the different pathways.

Virginia Department of Education Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Lisa Coons and Associate Superintendent of Programs Dr. Andy Armstrong were in attendance, alongside ACPS Chief of Staff Dr. Grace Taylor, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Pierrette Finney, Chief of School & Community Relations Julia Burgos, ACHS Executive Principal Alexander Duncan and Director of Career and Technical Education and Workforce Development Dr. Tricia Jacobs.

ACPS launched the Academies at Alexandria City in August 2024. This innovative model is composed of small learning communities organized around instructional themes known as academies, each of which includes multiple pathways that tie together courses and experiences to create a clear path for graduation. Through the Academies at Alexandria City, students explore a comprehensive curriculum customized to meet their individual needs and interest areas.