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About

The Pathways to Potential program is a state-run initiative implemented in 2012 and designed to help students succeed in school and life. The program places MDHHS caseworkers in schools across Michigan to serve as Success Coaches, working with students and families to overcome obstacles to success in school.

Pathways to Potential provides comprehensive support using a data-driven, wrap-around approach that includes case management, family engagement, and community partnerships. Success Coaches work with school staff and students to identify and remove attendance barriers. They also work with the student's family to determine the cause of absences to help find a solution. In addition to assisting families in applying for resources like food assistance, transportation, and access to health care, Success Coaches also connect schools with community resources. For example, they might help a school connect with a church's coat drive or bring in a community dental program. Success Coaches try to help families find what they need to be healthy and self-sufficient.

Pathways to Potential school partner criteria:

  • 75% or higher economically disadvantaged rate
  • Homeless rate is above the state average or estimated to be under-reported
  • Above state average for chronic absenteeism, grade repeats, suspensions/expulsions
  • Below state average graduation rate

Pathways to Potential is currently at capacity. Sometimes a local county has an opportunity to place a new Success Coach. Fill out the Pathways to Potential interest form here.

Find a Pathways School

Here's a look at the Pathways schools across Michigan. Don't see a Pathways School near you? Email us and we can tell you if any are in the works.

Pathways schools across Michigan