Introduction
In “Pathways to Adulthood,” author Jeremy Knoll argues that for many high school students, 12th grade feels like an “obstacle course.” Seniors spend most of their time jumping through hoops—without the structure of a cohesive experience—and passing the time. He asks readers to consider how schools can, instead, provide seniors with safe but challenging opportunities to get ready to go out into the world.
Use the themes and suggestions below to create school traditions that intentionally build “pathways to adulthood” for seniors.
Essential Questions
- What types of supports and meaningful learning opportunities do 12th-graders need in their final year of high school?
- How can I help our high school seniors prepare for their transition to college, career and civic participation?
Procedure
Finding and Voicing Self
- Work across subject areas to ensure that a strong emphasis on self-reflection is integrated with academic goals in all assignments and assessments.
- Provide an opportunity for all graduating seniors to write commencement speeches in which they discuss their personal challenges.
Talking About Transitions
- Address the social emotional aspects of graduation throughout the year by making space for personal narratives and inviting recent graduates and other alumni to come speak to seniors about their experiences.
- Use elective courses, advisory time and counseling sessions to guide students in life-mapping activities.
Preparing for College and Career
- To help prepare them for academia and the workplace, provide students lots of practice with peer-editing, giving and receiving constructive feedback and working on teams.
- When possible, match seniors with internship and work-study opportunities that align to their interests and future plans.
Inspiring Civic Engagement
- Build community service into graduation requirements.
- Work across subject areas to ensure that an emphasis on ethics and social responsibility is integrated with academic goals.
