Michelle Shawver spares no expense in helping the youth in Detroit. As principal of Pathways Academy, a public charter school, Shawver is a change agent in the community. Pathways Academy serves students in grades 7-12 who are pregnant, or already full-time parents, transition from grade school into college, or other areas of success. Pathways also help students overcome personal, emotional, and social challenges so they can become productive members of society.
On her start in education:
I always wanted to be a teacher. It was something that I verbalized at eight years old. I started in the tech industry, and I was making great money, but I knew teaching was my ultimate dream job. I decided to go back to school to get a teaching certification in early childhood education, and then I received my master’s degree. I also have an education specialist degree. I’ve been an educator since 2002, and I don’t regret one minute of it. My livelihood lies in working with children.
On her tenure at Pathways Academy:
I started in July of 2015. Pathways was my first experience working in a high school. It felt like home. Once I went into the baby room at Pathways, I knew this was where I was supposed to be. As the principal for Pathways, I’m responsible for 280 students. I tell my children all the time; you can still achieve your dreams. A diploma is only a stepping stone on the path toward success.
On the difference between operating a public school and a charter school:
We still have to adhere to the same policies as a traditional public school. The only difference is the curriculum that we offer. For our students, we offer parenting, cooking, and nutrition classes. We also provide free breakfast-lunch, plus coat and prom closets where students can borrow clothes for events. As young mothers get further along in their pregnancy, they have the option to complete homeschooling, along with a mentor to keep them on track.
On each child being accepted at Pathways Academy:
We provide an atmosphere of love at Pathways. They know we care about them and accept them as they are. Also, having small classrooms allows each student to receive the one-on-one time they need to move forward.
On former students visiting her after leaving Pathways Academy:
Recently, a few girls from my first year at Pathways visited me and thanked me. I also had a young woman from the class of 2018 visit me recently as well. These success stories help me to remember that I’m doing the right thing in life. My ultimate goal is to help them to be better parents and scholars in this world.
Pathways Academy has open enrollment year-round. For more information, call (313) 209-3804 or email Enrollment@pathwaysdetroit.com.
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