Local Schools Named ‘Schools of Distinction’

The following was originally published by The Daily Star.

Brilliant Pathways, an organization that works to help students from underserved communities become college and career ready, has named 26 schools across the United States and Ireland as 2025–26 Schools of Distinction, recognizing their “exemplary work preparing students for college, careers and life,” according to a news release from the organization.

Several local schools are on that list.

“Schools of Distinction distinguish themselves through their implementation of Brilliant Pathways’ comprehensive college and career readiness program. Ninety percent of students participating in the program have gone on to college,” the release stated.

“Schools have had to adapt to a rapidly changing landscape as they prepare students for their futures,” said Tara Smith, CEO of Brilliant Pathways. “These 26 schools have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to ensuring that young people have the opportunities, skills, and guidance they need to identify and pursue the pathways that are right for them.”

Local schools on the list include Cooperstown Central School, Gilbertsville-Mt. Upton Central School, Milford Central School District, Otsego Area Occupational Center, Owen D. Young Central School, Richfield Springs Central School and Worcester Central School.

The Brilliant Pathways program centers on mentoring, “essential skills” — including communication, collaboration, adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving — and directs partnerships among schools, colleges and businesses. “Its alumni have come from underserved rural and urban communities and gone on to rewarding careers in growing fields including technology, healthcare and STEM,” the release stated.

“Perhaps the most significant change we are seeing in education is that the old rules for preparing students for college and careers no longer apply,” said Rick Dalton, founder of Brilliant Pathways. “Academic learning remains essential, but artificial intelligence and rapidly changing employment markets demand more. Schools must also help students develop the flexible, enduring skills — such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving—that will remain valuable no matter how the workplace changes.”

To earn the School of Distinction designation, schools must meet a set of criteria, including the implementation of schoolwide programs that advance college and career readiness. Honorees also demonstrate “a sustained commitment to mentoring, Essential Skills development, and opportunities that connect classroom learning with college and career pathways,” the release stated.

Brilliant Pathways currently supports 15,000 students through partnerships with 150 rural and urban K–12 schools and districts across 10 states and Ireland.

Schools interested in participating in Brilliant Pathways’ college and career readiness program can learn more at brilliantpathways.org.