Project Next
Programs & Services
We provide college and career readiness and workforce development opportunities to high school students through Next Level Programming, services, resources, and events.
Next Level Programming
Xcelerate Workforce Pathway
Beginning in 2025–26, Xcelerate will merge into Focused Futures, forming a single, two-year program that equips students with the mentorship, skills, and experiences they need to explore careers and pursue postsecondary goals. The merged model supports students from junior year through graduation, giving them more time to explore options and make informed decisions. We will continue to offer tailored guidance and opportunities based on each student’s path, whether they choose college, training, the military, or the workforce.
"Partnering with local programs, like Project Next, is beneficial for our company and the community. This program exposes students to Action Academy. Action Academy most likely wouldn't have been on their radar without the Xcelerate program at Project Next. With college becoming more expensive, the trades are becoming more popular. As we recruit people for our Action Academy we look to recruit from our local community and Project Next helps us with that. It helps grow our exposure to the community and allows us to provide long term career opportunities for local San Marcos residents. "
Richard Johnson
General Manager, Action Air Conditioning, Heating and Solar
Project Next did a great job vetting qualified students to participate in the HomeAid Construction Training Program. One student, Anthony, was an excellent student who showed up on time, fully participated and is already engaged in interviews with prospective companies looking to hire. We look forward to a continued partnership Project Next".
Mary Lydon,
Executive Director, HomeAid San Diego
Next step services & resources
Future Centers
The Future Centers provide a focal point at each high school where students and their families have immediate access to post-high school preparation and planning resources.
Career Coaches help students discover their strengths and explore options to identify their best next, from college to trade school to the workforce.
Career Coaches
Our year-round Career Coaches help students develop job, career, and life readiness skills.
Skillshops
Multi-session out-of-school-time workshops that teach college and career readiness, soft skills, financial literacy, & other critical topics.
Career Closets
Gently-used professional clothing is available for students.
Virtual Reality College and Career Exploration
Virtual reality headsets with college and career exploration and public speaking software are available at each Future Center.
Gold Standard Online Resources
SuperStrong® Interest Inventory Assessment, Career Edge, and Next Gen Personal Finance programs are available to all students.
