Hello, I'm a 6th grader in the Houston Independent School District (HISD), and I want to share my experience with the Pathways program for middle school students. Instead of focusing on our regular schoolwork, we're often pulled into enrichment programs like Imagine Math and Mypath Reading. These take up time during what could be a productive period for homework, often resulting in late or missing assignments for many of us.

The reality is, these Pathways programs are not for credit or extra credit, and they seldom teach us anything new or valuable. Instead of enhancing our learning, they add unnecessary stress and distract us from assignments that actually matter. Me, my friends, and numerous other students find these mandatory programs frustrating and counterproductive.

HISD claims these programs are designed to enrich our academic experience, but the reality from a student's perspective is quite different. Imagine Math and Mypath Reading don't align with our immediate academic needs or learning styles. Shouldn't the focus be on developing programs that genuinely aid in our understanding of core subjects while promoting intellectual curiosity?

I urge the HISD administration to reconsider the Pathways program. Why not replace these standardized activities with more engaging, creative, and optional opportunities that enhance practical skills and cater to the diverse needs and interests of students? Personalized projects, workshops, or interest-based clubs could offer real benefits without the added stress or interference with our main coursework.

Ending mandatory Pathways activities that don't contribute effectively to our education would give students more time to focus on homework and support us in building strong foundational skills. It would also alleviate the burden on students and help us manage our time better during these critical learning years.

Please join me in calling for a reassessment and discontinuation of the current HISD Pathways program in middle schools. Sign this petition to make sure our voices are heard, and let’s work towards a system that truly benefits students academically and personally.