At Purpose Built Schools Atlanta, we’re redefining what it means to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. With the launch of our expanded Pathways with Purpose internship program, we’re opening doors to real-world experiences that ignite passions, build confidence, and turn aspirations into action.

Every student deserves the ability to explore their innate talents and create the blueprint of their future,” said Javan Wyche, community engagement manager at PBSA. “This program was built with immersion, critical thinking, and skill building in mind. We equip our scholars with practical skills, confidence, and clarity needed for life after graduation.”

Serving over 150 scholars in grades 7–12 at Price Middle and Carver STEAM High, the program spans eight specialized pathways and introduces a new Middle School Bridge Program to prepare younger scholars for high school and beyond. Whether it’s hands-on experience in healthcare, engineering, audiovisual production, urban agriculture, or early childhood education, each pathway is built to foster leadership, self-advocacy, and academic success.

“Each pathway includes a blend of certifications, mentorship, hands-on learning, and individualized support, ensuring that scholars are not only career-ready but also empowered to lead and thrive beyond graduation,” said Whyche. “The program’s flexible design allows for tailoring to individual student interests and needs, creating a powerful engine for equity, engagement, and economic mobility.”

Through strategic partnerships with local businesses, community champions, and educational institutions, scholars gain more than knowledge; they gain a network through mentorship, a mastery of skills through certifications, and a defined purpose. Since 2021, PBSA has connected over 140 students to internships and enrichment experiences. This expanded program is empowering even more scholars to discover their strengths and take meaningful steps toward opportunity-rich futures.

The future is bright. And it starts here, with purpose.

From the Classroom to Real Life: Students Share How Pathways Inspired Them

Kayla Hudson

My favorite memory from this internship pathway was being able to see all the girls happy and get along with each other. Working together as a team without anyone getting upset or feeling left out the group.

My biggest takeaway or learning from this internship program growth. I say this because seeing other girls older than me has helped me learn a lot.

Jahmarkus Gilbert

My biggest takeaway from the Internship is that regardless of what your currently going through you have people like you here to help and they’ve probably been through the same or even worse 10x even harder.

Damien Petty

And 1 thing that I’ve learned from my internship is that it takes time to grow but everyday add a positive to your goals.

Goddess Watkins

I would say my favorite has been connecting with others learning new skills and the farming work!!! definitely my favorite. I’ve learned to connect and take time to be patient with others.

Terrance Hall

1. My favorite memory is cooking on the food truck with my team and just hanging out with my friends Brian and Robert.
2. Being in this internship taught me how to make moves for myself because in the future I’ll be my own bios. so that’s why I’m preparing to start my own life before graduating high school.

Jafari West

My favorite memory from this internship was when we gave the new PBSA teachers a tour around the school and made them breakfast. It got me out of my comfort zone and I ended up enjoying it more than I thought I would!!