Breaking the Cycle

How Pathways to Success is helping underserved students build brighter futures

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL

FOR NEARLY TWO DECADES, Pathways to Success (PTS) has been a resource for underserved and underrepresented students across Delaware. Founded in 2008 by Executive Director Fay Blake, PTS empowers youth by providing the skills, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. By closing the education gap, reducing dropout rates, and guiding students toward successful futures, the program has impacted more than 3,000 students. Today, it serves 400 students across five high schools statewide, helping them overcome barriers to success.

PTS is dedicated to helping students break free from the cycle of poverty by providing them with essential life skills and career training. The program identifies students facing academic and behavioral challenges through a combination of school assessments, attendance records, and disciplinary histories.

With this data, PTS is able to offer targeted support, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive both in school and beyond. “This approach allows us to intervene in real time, offering critical support and dropout prevention services,” says Blake. “Many of these students possess strong work ethics and positive attitudes; they just need the right guidance to help them get back on track.”

Students enroll in ninth grade and continue to receive support for a full year after graduation, ensuring they have the help needed as they transition into adulthood. Throughout their time in the program, PTS coordinators provide personalized mentorship, offering both in-school and after-school sessions tailored to each student’s needs. Soft skills are equally emphasized, with students receiving hands-on training in areas such as teamwork, communication, time management, integrity, and customer service.

“I started Pathways to Success because I wanted to give back to the community that raised me. I know firsthand the challenges these students face, and I couldn’t be prouder of the progress we’ve made in helping them build brighter futures.”

— Executive Director Fay Blake

“We provide tutoring, financial literacy education, occupational skills training, workforce preparation, and leadership development in these programs,” adds Sarah Gilmour, the outreach coordinator for PTS. “Our comprehensive curriculum equips students with the essential skills that future colleges and employers look for.”

PTS draws directly from the C.A.R.E. model, which serves as a guiding framework for behavior modification and support. C stands for consistency—being there when students need help; A for authenticity— engaging with honesty and integrity; R for respect—treating each student with dignity; and E for empowerment—providing the tools and opportunities for students to realize their full potential.

In addition to academic guidance, the program is uniquely designed to offer real-time support during personal crises. Whether it’s homelessness, family issues, or academic struggles, PTS is available 24/7, offering immediate intervention to ensure every student gets the help they need.

To equip students with real-world experience, PTS leverages its longstanding partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions, offering valuable work experience and certifications. Notable partnerships include SoDel Concepts, The Meoli Companies, and Delmarva Power.

“One of our standout initiatives is our Powering the Workforce Utility Training Program, developed in collaboration with Delmarva Power,” Gilmour explains. “This eight-week training course has the potential to transform the lives of our students and their families, opening doors to stable, well-paying jobs.”

Partnerships like these not only provide immediate career opportunities but also contribute to the program’s broader success in preparing students for life after graduation, with PTS showing an impressive 98% graduation rate. Among the 2024 graduates, 80% are currently enrolled in college, while 18% have entered the workforce. The program’s Work Experience Initiative has also achieved a remarkable 90% job placement rate, providing students with invaluable work experience and essential soft skills that contribute to long-term career success.

“I started Pathways to Success because I wanted to give back to the community that raised me. I know firsthand the challenges these students face, and I couldn’t be prouder of the progress we’ve made in helping them build brighter futures,” Blake finishes. “We are honored to be recognized as a 2025 Superstar in Education.”