Introducing: Pathways to Purpose

We are thrilled to debut “Pathways to Purpose,” a new three-part docuseries by Gradient Learning that takes you inside the halls of Santa Fe South Pathways Middle College in Oklahoma City.

This isn’t your typical school-turnaround story. It’s an intimate look at what happens when a school adopts a whole-student approach to learning, deciding that relationships are just as important as rigor. In this holistic environment, life skills—the ability to navigate challenges, set goals, and lead with empathy—become the ultimate metrics of success.

Through the eyes of Principal Chris McAdoo, a dedicated teaching staff, and the students themselves, this series explores the "why" behind Pathways’ inspiring success over the past decade. While the school has earned awards and enjoyed surging statewide test scores, the real story is found in the generations being changed behind its doors.

In our three-part series, you’ll see:

• The Gradient partnership: How a shared vision between educators and Gradient Learning created a culture where students don’t just graduate. They thrive.

• The graduate’s journey: A senior navigating the transition to university with an Associate Degree already in hand.

• The full-circle moment: A former student who returned to the classroom as a teacher to pay forward the mentorship he received.

The first installment dives into the unique setting of Pathways on the campus of Oklahoma City Community College and the bold leadership required to turn a school on the brink of closure into a model for excellence. Watch Episode 1 below.

Stay tuned as we release the following chapters of Pathways to Purpose over the coming weeks.