ABOUT URBAN PATHWAYS
APPLY TODAYBUILDING FUTURES
ONE STUDENT AT A TIME
Much more than just a 6-12 grade charter school, Urban Pathways provides a safe haven for students in the Pittsburgh area through strong leadership, trust, and respect from our administration. Here, you’ll find the programs, stability, safety, and role models necessary to help you prepare for your future.
If you have dreams of graduating high school and building a successful career, Urban Pathways offers a dual enrollment career pathway with a local university, providing you with advanced academic opportunities and real-world experience through internships. We help you turn your dreams into reality by equipping you with the skills and knowledge to excel in your chosen field.
Still trying to figure out your path? Urban Pathways is here to show you what’s possible. We offer multiple pathway options, including trade pathways in partnership with local industry partners and trade schools. You’ll be introduced to various career opportunities and paired with a mentor who will guide and inspire you as you discover your interests and strengths—all taxpayer funded!
Who We Are
OUR MISSION
At Urban Pathways, we strive to help every child find a pathway that leads toward a successful adult life in the city environment and beyond.
OUR APPROACH
Just like our students, the definition of success is uniquely different from person to person. At Urban Pathways, small class sizes enable teachers to know their students individually and understand their unique learning styles and academic needs. Our faculty works side-by-side with students to create personalized education plans, craft their unique paths, and realize their full potential.
OUR COMMUNITY
Urban Pathways offers an intercultural community where we learn together and change the conditions in which we live.
We work hard to provide a safe environment where our students feel seen, heard, and respected. Nurturing relationships is a priority at Urban Pathways. We offer support whenever our students fail, and we’re there to celebrate their successes. Whichever path they choose, we ensure our students have the resources they need to realize a bright future.
MEET OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
Kathleen Garland
CEO and Principal
Mrs. Garland serves as the CEO/Principal. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from California University of PA, a Master of Education in Mental Health and/or Physically Handicapped K-12, from California University of PA, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, K-12 from Duquesne University. She has been with UPCS since 2004.
Lauren Lang
Executive Assistant to the CEO and Principal
Ms. Lang is the Executive Assistant to the CEO/Principal. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Edinboro University and has been with Urban Pathways since 2017.
Dr. Edward Mandell
Director of Special Education
Dr. Mandell currently serves as the Director of Special Education. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Miami and went on to the University of Pittsburgh for his Masters of Education in School Counseling and Doctor of Education Degree in School Leadership. He has been with UPCS since 2016.
Dr. Reginald Hickman
Director of Curriculum
Dr. Hickman is the Director of Curriculum. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a B.A. in history in 1995, a M.A.T. in social studies in 1996, and earned a doctorate in 2017. He returned to Urban Pathways in 2023.
Dr. Kevin Reevey
Dean of Students
Dr. Reevey currently serves as the Dean of Students. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Central State University, a Master’s Degree from Carlow University in Professional Counseling, concentration in School Counseling, and a Doctorate in Education Leadership & Management from Capella University. He returned to Urban Pathways in 2021.
Jeannine Ferguson
Events & Attendance Officer
Mrs. Ferguson is the External Engagement, Events, and Attendance Officer at Urban Pathways. Her educational background includes an Associate of Science degree from the Community College of Allegheny County, a Bachelor of Arts degree and nonprofit leadership certificate from the University of Pittsburgh. She has been with UPCS since 2004.
Jennifer Mack
Student Information Coordinator
Ms. Mack is the PIMS and Child Accounting Administrator. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design from the University at Buffalo. She has been at Urban Pathways since 2001.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the dress code requirements at Urban Pathways?
Our current dress code can be found on the dress code page.
How do Urban Pathways students get to and from school?
Because of our location in downtown Pittsburgh, Urban Pathways students have access to public transportation and are provided with a free Port Authority bus pass if they live in the Pittsburgh Public School District. Students are responsible for adhering to bus schedules to make sure that they arrive at school on time. Safety groups are available to make sure that our students safely arrive to and leave from school.
READY TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP?
Whether you’re college-bound or still discovering your direction, Urban Pathways provides the courses, programs, and support to help you chart your way.