This week, McCaskey High School welcomed 8th graders from across the School District of Lancaster for the annual Pic Your Path event, an exciting opportunity for students to explore the many academic and extracurricular options that await them in high school.
Across two days, middle school students toured McCaskey High School, meeting teachers, students, and program leaders who shared what makes McCaskey such a dynamic place to learn and grow. Through hands-on demonstrations, engaging conversations, and interactive exhibits, students experienced a preview of the pathways available to them, from career and technical education (CTE) programs to advanced academic tracks like International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP).
The goal of Pic Your Path is to help students begin thinking intentionally about their interests and future goals before they enter high school. For many, it is their first opportunity to learn about specialized programs such as engineering, health sciences, business, and early childhood education, as well as the arts, athletics, and student leadership opportunities that make McCaskey a hub of creativity and community.
By giving students a firsthand look at what high school has to offer, Pic Your Path empowers them to make informed decisions about their educational journey. It also helps them connect their passions with real-world opportunities, whether that means pursuing college credits through dual enrollment, earning industry certifications, or joining one of McCaskey’s many clubs and organizations that help students develop leadership and collaboration skills.
The event reflects the district’s commitment to preparing every student for success beyond graduation by starting that planning process early. With support from their teachers, counselors, and families, these 8th graders are encouraged to see high school not just as the next step, but as the beginning of a pathway shaped by their curiosity, ambition, and dreams.
At McCaskey, every student has a place, every passion has a purpose, and every path begins with exploration. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.