College & Career Pathways

College & Career Pathways2025-09-08T09:46:23-07:00

Partnering with schools and communities to create meaningful pathways for student success.

About

College & Career Pathways

At ESD 112, we believe every student deserves the chance to explore their passions, build skills, and confidently move toward a future that excites them. Our College & Career Pathways team works alongside schools, families, employers, and community partners to create and strengthen clear, purposeful pathways from K–12 to college, career, and beyond.

Our programs are rooted in authentic community partnerships and collective impact, guided by data, evidence-based practices, and research-informed strategies. With expertise in labor market trends, high quality advising and instructional practices, career preparation, and aligning credentials of value, we ensure that every student’s learning journey is purposeful, relevant, and connected to real-world opportunities.

Click on a program below to learn more.

Programs

College & Career Pathway Programs

Each program is designed with student success in mind, combining proven practices, expert guidance, and a focus on outcomes that truly matter. Together, we are opening doors, building confidence, and helping every learner in Southwest Washington achieve their full potential.

Our programs include:

Career Connected Learning

Of the nearly 100,000 family-sustaining jobs projected in the region over the next 10 years, more than 80% will require STEM literacy. This Network collaborates across K12-Higher Ed and Workforce to develop hands-on, career-connected learning experiences that prepare students to graduate STEM literate and on a path to high-demand careers.

Horizons Advising Partnership

Our team supports students and families with advising, dual credit, and financial literacy, helping them confidently navigate pathways toward college and career. Horizons also is creating regional data-driven understanding of postsecondary readiness for K12- Workforce and Higher Education partners.

Youth Employment Services (YES)

We are providing opportunities for work readiness training, career exploration, and paid internships to students with disabilities, preparing them for successful transitions to college and/or the workforce.

Rural CTE Cooperative

The cooperative is expanding access to high-quality, industry-aligned Career and Technical Education in rural schools, offering dual credit and pathways aligned with labor market needs.

REACH

The 21st Century REACH program provides before- and after-school enrichment that supports academics, builds social-emotional skills, and fosters strong relationships. Students engage in hands-on projects, STEM, art, and cultural learning while exploring career pathways through mentorships and community partnerships. In a safe and supportive environment, REACH empowers students to grow, connect, and succeed in school and beyond.

Program Contacts

Who to Contact

Vickei Hrdina

Director of K12- Workforce-Higher Ed Partnerships

Phone: 360-952-3427

Email: vickei.hrdina@esd112.org

College & Career Pathway Programs

College & Career Pathway Resources

Upcoming Career Readiness & STEM Classes

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ESD 112
ESD 112January 2, 2026 at 11:33am
January is School Board Recognition Month, and we are highlighting each of the dedicated volunteer Board Members serving ESD 112. Today, we recognize Mel Netzhammer, who was selected in January 2025 to represent District #5, which encompasses parts of Vancouver and Evergreen School Districts. Vancouver Public Schools Evergreen Public Schools

We asked Mel what “educational equity” meant to him in practical, everyday terms. He said: “The incredible staff at ESD112 work every day to make sure every child has the opportunity to learn. Regardless of their starting points or the obstacles they face, every child has the opportunity to get an education.”

More about Mel: He retired as chancellor of Washington State University Vancouver in spring 2025 after 13 years in the role and a 40-year career in higher education.

Netzhammer serves on local boards, including the Columbia River Economic Development Council, Greater Portland Inc., and Career Connect Southwest Washington, and has just completed a term as co-chair. Nationally, he serves on the boards of the American Democracy Project, LGBTQ Leaders in Higher Education, and the Washington Campus Coalition for the Public Good.

Thank you for your dedicated service, Mel!

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