Watsonville, CA – Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD) announced today that the first-ever enrollment window for its revolutionary new early college pathway program, PV Advance, has already reached capacity—in less than two weeks. Due to the overwhelming demand, the district implemented a randomized lottery process to generate invitations for first-year students, with all remaining applicants placed on a waitlist for future consideration.
PV Advance, launching in the 2025–26 school year in partnership with Cabrillo College, represents a bold step forward for the partners in their commitment to expanding opportunity and accelerating academic success for students. Designed as a first-of-its-kind early college and career readiness pathway, PV Advance offers students a unique course of study that integrates rigorous academics, mentorship, real-world skill development, and direct connections to post-secondary and workforce opportunities.
“We knew this program would resonate with families, but the response has exceeded even our highest expectations,” said Dr. Heather Contreras, PVUSD Superintendent of Schools. “PV Advance is more than a program—it’s a promise to our students that their future starts now. The demand shows how eager our community is for innovative, student-centered opportunities.”
PV Advance was developed to support students by bringing college to the high school campus for students and families seeking accelerated academic and career growth. Students participating in the program at PV High School will receive early access to college courses, personalized academic coaching, mentorship from local leaders, and opportunities to explore high-demand industries in the Central Coast region.
“The excitement around PV Advance has been absolutely inspiring,” said Todd Wilson, Principal of Pajaro Valley High School. “Our students are stepping up to take on college-level challenges with confidence and ambition. This level of interest tells us that our families are ready for something transformative - and we’re proud that PV High will be leading the way.”
The randomized lottery with outreach for enrollment was conducted over the last two weeks and families were contacted via phone calls of their student’s enrollment opportunity. PVUSD is exploring options to expand future cohorts of PV Advance in response to the high interest.
About Pajaro Valley Unified School District
PVUSD serves more than 15,000 students across 33 schools in Watsonville and the surrounding communities. Grounded in the belief in "Whole Child, Whole Family, Whole Community," the district is committed to equity, innovation, and high expectations for every student. PV Advance is one of several visionary programs helping to uplift students and transform outcomes across PVUSD.
