Pathways offer a promising strategy for transforming high schools and improving student outcomes. However, to achieve these desired results, pathways must be of high quality. To guide sites in planning and implementing such pathways, a design team of experts developed the criteria outlined in this document. Sites can choose to go through a certification process that uses these criteria as a guide. The Criteria themselves are intended to serve multiple purposes. "For pathway team members" seeking certification, they serve as a guide to build, improve, and sustain high-quality pathways. "For others--educational leaders, industry and postsecondary partners, policymakers, and community members"--they serve to deepen understanding by describing the elements of a high-quality pathway. Although pathways may vary in their structure and delivery, it is expected that any pathway seeking certification would adhere to the objectives and guiding principles and incorporate the core components. (Contains 1 footnote.)