Students enrolled in Lynwood Unified School District’s computer science, engineering and health science pathways will soon benefit from an enriched curriculum, advanced learning resources and expanded internship opportunities thanks to a $2.2 million Golden State Pathways Program (GSPP) Implementation Grant.
Announced by the California Department of Education and Gov. Gavin Newsome’s office in May, the GSPP grant aims to elevate educational experiences and career readiness for Lynwood students within the District’s dynamic, hands-on career technical education (CTE) pathways exploring science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.
“We are excited to provide our students with the best opportunities to pursue high-wage, high-skill and high-growth industries while still in high school,” Lynwood Unified CTE Coordinator Juan Barroso said. “We look forward to increasing internship and work experiences, enhancing dual enrollment in college and career pathways, and creating more connections for growth.”
Established in 2022, the GSPP grant provides California school districts the resources to promote and modernize CTE pathways in fields like technology, health care, education and climate-related industries, supporting students' seamless transition from high school to college and careers.
The one-time grant will be distributed over four years, funding the purchase of program materials, equipment and staff training. Two full-time staff members will be hired to support administrators, teachers and students in the pathways. They will help enhance work-based learning opportunities – such as internships, job shadowing, industry field trips and work experience – through Hub Cities Career Center Worksource.
The District will also enhance educational pathways by forging academic and industry partnerships. Collaborating with esteemed institutions such as Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation, Compton College, and Cerritos College, the District will provide students with valuable hands-on training and dual enrollment opportunities, empowering students to earn college credits while in high school.
Lynwood Unified and other GSPP grantees will meet with the LA County Office of Education in August to learn about the funding distribution timeline.
“This transformative GSPP grant represents a significant investment in the future of Lynwood Unified students, empowering them with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary to succeed in college, career and beyond,” Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D, said. “We take immense pride in our CTE programs, and I am eager to witness the incredible achievements and new levels of excellence this funding will help us achieve.”