Our Programs | Avenue Scholars Des Moines

Our Program

Starting in the 2022 – 2023 school year, Avenue Scholars began providing this comprehensive program in Central Iowa starting in the Des Moines Public Schools at East and Roosevelt High Schools with a plan to expand to all Des Moines high schools by 2024.

The program starts in a student’s junior year of high school and continues uninterrupted through postsecondary training and up to six months following career entry. Eligibility is based on financial need (such as eligibility for free or reduced-price school lunches or a federal Pell Grant), interest in pursuing a high-demand career requiring an associate degree or less, and attendance at a partner high school.

Each student is assigned a Career Coach at both the high school and postsecondary/career levels of the program to guide their personal and career-related development during the junior and senior years of high school (High School Career Coach) and during postsecondary training and into career entry (Postsecondary Career Coach). Students also receive support from DMACC College Success Navigators, who assist students with college-related issues (course enrollment, financial aid, academic support, etc.). Additionally, Avenue Scholars’ Business Outreach Coordinators engage area businesses to provide career awareness, exploration, and employment opportunities.

Program Overview

Program Guarantees

Education/Training

A committed AS participant graduates from high school, completes relevant career education or training, and is goal oriented toward an AS-approved pathway.

Work-Ready Skills

A committed AS participant demonstrates work-ready habits and skills, including responsibility, work ethic, communication, positive attitude, professionalism, teamwork, and problem solving.

Financial & Personal Well-Being

A committed AS participant demonstrates the ability to: overcome barriers to employment, financial, physical, and mental well-being, and access community resources and services when necessary.