PATHE is an integration of services within an existing school management structure intended to produce academic gains and improved behavior. Not solely a “program,” it is a structure and process for managing broad school improvement, taking into account each school's strengths and needs. Meaningful changes must occur at the school level, with support from the district. School-based change is central to the PATHE approach; school staff must be involved in the development and implementation of locally-created plans. Problem behavior is affected by many elements of the school environment. PATHE directs its resources toward changing student characteristics, including self-efficacy and social bonding, as well as school social organization, including sense of community and management structure. PATHE's goals are to increase educational attainment, reduce delinquent behavior and student misconduct, and increase post-secondary educational and career development. PATHE was originated by educators in the Charleston County, South Carolina School District and is currently being replicated in a Maryland school district by researchers at the University of Maryland, College Park. PATHE has been selected by the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence for inclusion among its “Promising” programs.

Target Population

- Grade Level: from  Sixth grade to  Twelfth grade