The program is based on the National Career Development Guidelines . The presence of a very supportive administration and caring teachers and staff make school a welcome place for Zapata youth. High school students have access to a wide range of career development assessment activities, a good career information system, peer tutoring and teacher tutoring programs, and a service learning program. A unique program helps migrant students complete their studies during the shortened time period when they can be in school each year.
Parents are active participants in school activities.
A wide array of inter-community collaborations exists that helps provide school supplies, child care, clothing, and other services to students. The advocacy period will cover all of the National Career Development Guidelines during the student high school years. Copies of the students' competency profiles are added to the students' career portfolios. Counselors and administrators support the teachers in this program by providing the curriculum, videos, staff development, and print materials. In addition to the career development curriculum, the advocacy groups are structured to help students increase self-esteem and understanding of themselves.