Fall 2025 Academic Support Highlights at Pathway K–5
This fall, Fuse Project was honored to continue supporting Pathway K–5, a uniquely impactful and deeply caring partner school in the Avenue community. Pathway K–5 is the first alternative elementary school in Mobile County Public Schools, serving approximately seventy students each year through its Alternative Program. Many of the children who attend Pathway have experienced significant trauma, neglect, or behavioral challenges that make it difficult for them to succeed in their traditional school environments. In addition to providing standard academic instruction, Pathway’s staff works intentionally to teach behavioral strategies that help students manage emotions, strengthen coping skills, reduce maladaptive behaviors, and ultimately transition successfully back to their home schools.
Pathway also houses the ABLE (Autism and Behavioral Learning Extension) Units, a parent-choice program that serves students with Autism who exhibit behaviors that significantly affect their academic or social success in traditional settings. All staff are trained in ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) principles for instruction and behavior interventions, with a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst overseeing behavioral services. Family training is offered as well, ensuring that caregivers have tools to support their children at home. Across both programs, the goal is the same: to provide students with the support, skills, and confidence they need to thrive and return to their traditional school settings ready for success.
Celebrating Academic and Behavioral Growth
In October, we partnered with Pathway K–5 staff to host a vibrant celebration recognizing student achievement in iReady Math and Reading, behavior improvements, and perfect attendance. The event was filled with nachos, certificates, upbeat music, and dancing, transforming what might otherwise be a typical school afternoon into an uplifting moment students will remember.
Pathway’s entire administrative and teaching team was present, cheering students on and reinforcing the culture of encouragement that forms the heart of the school. We are especially grateful to Order of Fuse member Cecily Harper, who volunteered her time and energy to help make the celebration joyful, seamless, and memorable for students.
These recognitions especially matter at a school like Pathway where every improvement represents tremendous effort and progress. Celebrating students for academic steps forward, increased attendance, or positive behavior choices not only rewards hard work but helps students internalize the message that they can succeed. For children navigating behavioral challenges, learning disabilities, or the lingering effects of trauma, these moments of public acknowledgment can boost confidence, increase motivation, and strengthen their sense of belonging within their school community.
What is iReady?
iReady is an adaptive online program used nationally to assess and support growth in literacy and mathematics. It adjusts dynamically to each student’s learning level, identifying both strengths and learning gaps, and offering personalized instructional lessons to help students progress at their own pace.
At Pathway K–5, iReady plays a vital role in:
Tracking academic growth throughout the year
Helping staff identify skill deficits early
Creating individualized learning paths
Supporting students who may be significantly below grade level
Providing data to guide daily instruction and behavioral support strategies
Recognizing iReady growth is particularly meaningful for students who may face learning differences or behavioral barriers. When these students see their progress celebrated publicly, it reinforces that their effort, no matter how small, matters. It teaches perseverance, helps build academic confidence, and reminds them that their teachers and community partners are paying attention to the steps they’re taking toward success.
Why Recognition Matters at Pathway
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools for supporting students with behavioral or emotional needs, something Pathway’s staff excels at. Celebrations like this one:
Encourage students to repeat positive behaviors
Build trust between students and adults
Reduce classroom disruptions by rewarding progress
Reinforce attendance as a priority
Create a joyful school culture grounded in hope
Strengthen the internal belief that students can grow academically and socially
For many students at Pathway, these experiences help reshape how they view themselves as learners. Incentives become more than just fun; they are powerful catalysts for long-term change.
Looking Ahead
Pathway K–5 continues to be a beacon of compassion, structure, and possibility for students who need the most support. This fall’s awards celebration was a testament to what intentional encouragement, evidence-based practice, and strong school-community partnerships can accomplish.
Fuse Project is proud to stand beside Pathway’s dedicated teachers, administrators, and behavior specialists as they guide students toward healthier habits, stronger academic skills, and more hopeful futures.
If you’d like to help us continue supporting transformative programs like those at Pathway K–5, please consider making a donation to Fuse Project. Your generosity ensures students receive the opportunities, encouragement, and care they deserve.