Niagara Falls High School expands career pathways as college enrollment declines

Niagara Falls High School is implementing specialized career pathways to prepare students for the workforce as college enrollment rates drop. Approximately one-third of seniors at the school are now choosing to enter the workforce directly after graduation, an increase from roughly 25% a decade ago.

To support this shift, students are encouraged to select from five distinct pathways by the 11th grade, including options in business, finance, design, and engineering. Practical training is a core component, such as construction students renovating a former cafeteria kitchen at the old high school campus.

Former Superintendent Mark Laurrie noted that providing these career pathways is essential for the community, which has faced population declines and the loss of manufacturing plants. The goal is to provide students with viable career options that encourage them to remain in the city and state.