The Partnership for Los Angeles Schools has been awarded a $750,000 grant over two years from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation (formerly Carnegie Corporation of New York) to expand college and career pathways for students across its network of high schools in Los Angeles. The Andrew Carnegie Foundation has been a long-time supporter of the Partnership, investing in the organization’s work for nearly a decade.
The investment will support a comprehensive set of initiatives designed to prepare students for life after high school through expanded career exploration, work-based learning opportunities, and advising that helps students plan for college, training programs, and careers aligned with their interests and goals.
A central component of the initiative will be providing direct support to students through internship stipends, scholarships, advising, and hands-on career experiences that may otherwise be out of reach.
“This investment from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation helps expand what is possible for our students,” said Guadalupe Guerrero, CEO of the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools. “Young people in Watts, South Los Angeles, and Boyle Heights deserve meaningful opportunities to explore careers, develop their talents, and build pathways to fulfilling futures. By investing in internships, advising, and career exploration, we are helping students see what’s possible and giving them the experiences and support to pursue it.”
“Students’ postsecondary outcomes shouldn’t be limited by access to networks or resources,” said Saskia Levy Thompson, a program director for Education at the Andrew Carnegie Foundation. “The Partnership is helping close that gap by connecting students to professional experiences and academic support that put college and career pathways in reach.”
The funding will expand what students are able to see, access, and achieve. More students will graduate with a clear, actionable plan for their future—whether that is college, career, or both—and with real exposure to the industries and career pathways. Additionally, with consistent and personalized support, students will not have to navigate these decisions alone. Instead, they will receive tailored guidance that reflects their interests, family circumstances, and long-term goals.
The grant reflects Carnegie’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for young people and supporting efforts that prepare students for success in college, careers, and civic life.