There are many pathways to a successful career, and every student should have access to postsecondary education and career opportunities and support to allow them to pursue degrees and certificates that align with their interests and career aspirations and see the steps needed to reach their goals. Yet, because of the quickly changing labor demands and complexity of the economic landscape, longstanding barriers to accessing high-quality opportunities, and the many demands on school counselors, choosing and navigating a pathway that will enable them to have a successful future can be hard for many students -- particularly low-income, first-generation students, and students of color -- and their families. This comprehensive report outlines an ideal system where pathways help students transition seamlessly from P-12 to higher education and careers. It emphasizes the importance of aligning degrees and certificates with students' interests and career aspirations, while also addressing the complexities and barriers that exist in the current pathways landscape. The report highlights the disparities in support available to students from underfunded school districts, low-income backgrounds, and students of color, advocating for every high school to have a dedicated pathways counselor. Five key elements of an ideal pathways system are presented: (1) Clear Choices--Students have a clear understanding of their options; (2) Start Smart--Students and families understand available paths before entering high school; (3) Access for All--Information is accessible and provided in multiple formats and languages; (4) Guided Beginnings--Students explore options through regular, early high school touchpoints; and (5) Final Prep--Staff provide dedicated and targeted support for 11th and 12th graders. The report also identifies systemic barriers and specific challenges faced by rural students, students with disabilities, and multilingual learners.