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DeWitt Clinton principal says nine career pathways and industry internships aim to get students 'to the workforce' sooner
Summary
Principal Pierre Orbi and Dean Rafael Arazo told BronxNet that DeWitt Clinton High School built nine career pathways — including computer science, nursing and automotive — that combine college credit, certification exams and internships; students cited apprenticeships with auto firms and licensing opportunities before graduation.
Dr. Bob Lee welcomed Principal Pierre Orbi and Dean Rafael Arazo of DeWitt Clinton High School, joined by student leaders, to describe the school's vocational and career-pathway programming.
Orbi said students asked for clearer routes to college and careers, and the school responded by building nine pathways. "Every pathway has these three opportunities: college credits, a certification exam opportunity, and a chance to work," he said. Orbi added the pathways were created from student interest and designed to produce tangible credentials employers recognize.
Dean Rafael Arazo and Orbi described examples: a computer‑science pathway developed from scratch that has graduating students prepared for web development apprenticeships; health pathways with over 50 students earning certified nursing assistant (CNA) credentials last year; and an automotive internship run with Chrysler/Jeep and local partners that teaches battery and tire changes and basic engine maintenance. Orbi said the school celebrated a new research partnership with Columbia University that included paid internship hours for students working in university labs.
Student Simon Berry, student‑government president, and student Amadou Bach described hands‑on experience in the automotive program and security/real‑estate internships. Bach said the internships teach practical skills and that employers often present job opportunities at the program's conclusion.
Orbi and Arazo also discussed alumni engagement and proposed a small alumni contribution model as a steady funding source to support student programs and equipment.
Why it matters: The school argues that credentialed pathways, paid internships and local apprenticeship ties improve student readiness for both college and direct entry into skilled work, and that targeted partnerships help students build competitive resumes.
Next steps: The school plans to continue expanding pathways (education pathway noted as coming next year), broaden employer partnerships and sustain alumni fundraising efforts.
