February 25, 2026
P2P is excited to have kicked off its second semester of the 2025-2026 school year
Atlanta Public Schools (APS)
Pathways to Dreams officially has programming in five new Atlanta Public middle schools this semester. Students began their adventurous learning journey, facilitated by the wonderful disABILITY LINK CIL Instructor and Peer Mentor, by exploring their personal strengths and areas of need through visuals, guided discussions, and hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity and build confidence.
From day one, scholars explored an important truth: everyone has dreams for their future. By identifying what they do well and recognizing areas that may be challenging, students are laying the groundwork for greater independence, meaningful work, and life beyond school.
Lesson One focused on:
- Practicing decision-making
- Expressing interests and preferences
- Recognizing individual strengths
- Building early self-awareness
This foundational lesson set the stage for future instruction in planning for transition, career exploration, and real-world skill development.
Richards Middle School (Muscogee County)
New groups of students at Richards Middle School entered their Pathway to Dreams journey this month. Access 2 Independence CIL Instructor guided these amazing students through lessons focusing on job exploration through self-discovery — and they did it superhero style! Through engaging, superhero-themed lessons, students participated in:
- Interactive discussions
- Vocabulary-building activities
- Reflection exercises
- Games and collaborative projects
- Creating personal “Hero Profiles”
- Beginning their individualized Dream Plans
Students discovered that their unique abilities are their superpowers and began connecting those strengths to future goals and potential career paths. Watching scholars act out their strengths, identify their passions, and boldly share their dreams has been truly inspiring.
Lewis Frasier Middle School (Liberty County)
Lewis Frasier Middle School (LFMS) students are off to a fantastic start! LIFE CIL Instructor and Peer Mentors recently guided students through completing a career interest inventory to explore preferred career areas. It was incredible to see their enthusiasm grow as they discovered potential career pathways aligned with their interests.
Through Pathway to Dreams, LFMS students are:
- Building foundational soft skills
- Engaging in early career exploration
- Participating in meaningful self-reflection
- Learning even more about their local CIL
- Preparing for the future — starting now
We are so thankful for our strong partnership with Liberty County School System and Living Independence for Everyone (LIFE CIL), which makes this impactful programming possible.
Impact in Elbert, Columbia, Houston, and Polk Counties
Pathway to Dreams classes are also off to a great start in Elbert, Columbia, and Polk Counties through the amazing implementation facilitated by Walton Options, NWGACIL, and Multiplechoices CIL instructors. Students are engaging in meaningful Pathway to Dreams lessons and also as well as discussions explaining valuable information about local CIL services available to students and families Students in these areas have begun discovering:
- Their interests and passions
- Their dreams for the future
- The importance of expanding their soft skills toolbox
We are looking forward to a wonderful semester of growth, discovery, and achievement.
Program Numbers as a Glance
- 411 New Students enrolled for SY 2026
- 52 Students enrolled in a second year of Pathways to Dreams
- 587 total students currently enrolled in Pathway to Dreams
- 469 P2P services delivered to students in January
- 12 educators participated in professional learning at Richards and Elbert Middle Schools
Looking Ahead
The energy, engagement, and enthusiasm from students across all participating schools have been truly joyful to witness. As scholars continue exploring their dreams, identifying their strengths, and building practical life and career skills, P2P remains proud to walk alongside them on this journey.
Stay tuned for more highlights as students continue participating in the Pathway to Dreams program — made possible through strong community collaboration and a shared commitment to student success. Together, we are helping students pave pathways to bright futures.
(Funded by U.S. Department of Education, Grant Number H4121E230027)