College & Career LAUNCH Program
New Program debuts in the Fall of 2027!

A Career Discovery Experience for Incoming Freshmen
Introducing Leyden’s College and Career LAUNCH, an exclusive, application-only program designed exclusively for incoming freshmen ready to fast-track their future. Engineered to jumpstart your high school journey, this incredible experience allows students to jump right into Leyden’s premier career pathways through hands-on, unit-based explorations in fields like robotics, pre-engineering, culinary arts, construction, and emerging technology. Students in the program will have opportunities to work alongside expert teachers and industry leaders, both at Leyden and in the community. LAUNCH students will take learning about future careers to the next level by earning resume-building industry certifications (including CPR and specialized career credentials). Classes can be taken for honors credit, and the program runs right here at Leyden from Periods 3-9. Launch offers motivated ninth-graders an unmatched opportunity to discover their passions, earn real-world credentials, and gain an insider advantage before beginning a formal pathway at Leyden.
Profile of a LAUNCH Student
LAUNCH students are independent and motivated learners who enjoy a challenge. They are open to exploring different college and career pathways. They are motivated to develop their academic, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills and are ready to work with their peers and teachers in a flexible schedule to produce meaningful, authentic work. They approach field trips, mentoring, and guest lectures with a curiosity to learn.