COURAGE - Jobs for America`s Graduates

JAG
2013 Annual Report
JAG Grads:
College and Career Ready!
HOPE
EMPLOYMENT ENTHUSIASM
GROWTHLEADERS
PERSISTENCE
COMMITMENTS
OPPORTUNITIESCOURAGE
EDUCATION
DREAM
SUCCESSACHIEVEMENT
JAG
Contents
JAG is a life-changing experience
for those fortunate to be served in a
program that is customized to fit the
needs of young people with barriers
to success who need, want and can
benefit from a JAG Model program.
2013 Annual Report Theme:
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17-18
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“JAG Grads: College and Career Ready”
2013 Year in Review
Board Chairs and Milestones
Chairman’s Report
Vice Chairman’s Report
Vice Chairman’s Report
Vice Chairman’s Report
President’s Report
JAG National Network
JAG Model
JAG Program Applications
Research Highlights
JAG Performance Outcomes
JAG Competency Based Curriculums
Alumni Spotlight
JAG End of Year Board Meeting
Board Officers and Members
JAG Partners
JAG Investors
Seventh Annual National Thought Leader Event
2013 National Leadership Awards
2013 National Student Leadership Academy 30th Annual National Training Seminar
2013 Smith Scholars
2013 JAG State Organization Profiles
“JAG Grads: College and Career Ready”
Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) is a state-based national non-profit organization dedicated to high school and
postsecondary success for youth of great promise to secure a quality job and pursue a career. Since 1980, JAG has delivered
consistent, compelling results – helping nearly 995,000 middle school, high school and out-of-school students to stay in
school through graduation (or completion of a GED), secure quality entry-level employment and/or pursue a postsecondary
education that leads to career advancement opportunities. This 2013 Annual Report is dedicated to the students served
by highly professional and well-trained JAG Specialists who work tirelessly, creatively and persistently in the schools to
help identify the young people with significant barriers to academic, personal and/or career success; deliver engaging and
effective outcomes-based JAG Model services; keep JAG students in school through graduation and the 12-month postgraduation follow-up period; and, achieve extraordinary results!
2
JAG
2013 in Review
“There are a lot of kids out there who need help, who are getting a lot of negative
reinforcement. And is there more that we can do to give them the sense that their
country cares about them and values them and is willing to invest in them?”
– President Barack Obama, July 19, 2013
In the 2013 State of the State Addresses, an increasing
number of Governors highlighted Jobs for America’s
Graduates and/or requested new or increased funding
from their Legislatures. The JAG Board of Directors is
most appreciative of the State Affiliates of the National
Network whose work and accomplishments resulted in
$6 Million
Commitments in 2013 resulted in the largest one
year growth in JAG’s history.
60
118
Governor Mike Pence worked with the Indiana General Assembly
to secure a $6 million appropriation to double the scale of JAGIndiana. It is the largest growth percentage in the shortest period
of time in JAG’s history.
extraordinary commitments from their Governors, Chief
State School Officers and Legislatures. Commitments
in 2013 resulted in the largest one year growth in JAG’s
history. We salute the following for their leadership:
The Honorable
Mike Beebe
State of Arkansas
The Honorable
Brian Sandoval
State of Nevada
The Honorable
Steve Bullock
State of Montana
The Honorable
Sam Brownback
State of Kansas
The Honorable
Mike Pence
State of Indiana
The Honorable
Paul LePage
State of Maine
The Honorable
Terry Branstad
State of Iowa
The Honorable
Phil Bryant
State of Mississippi
The Honorable
Dennis Daugaard
State of South Dakota
The Honorable
Jack Markell
State of Delaware
State Superintendent Randy Dorn,
Washington State, committed
to increase the number of JAG
schools from 36 to 70+.
36 70+
JAG schools in Washington State
SPRING BOARD MEETING
In April 2013, Governor Brian Sandoval, Vice Chair of the Board,
hosted the Spring Board meeting in Carson City, Nevada. The Board
focused on several major national issues, especially raising the policy
visibility regarding the extraordinary levels of youth unemployment
and how best to take advantage of JAG’s momentum during what
appeared to have been one of the best opportunities for growth in
the organization’s history.
JAG Grads: College and Career Ready
3
Thirty-tHREE Years of Milestones and Leadership
Chairs of the JAG Board of Directors
The Honorable
Pete du Pont
Governor of Delaware
1980 - 1986
The Honorable
Charles S. Robb
The Honorable
John R. McKernan, Jr.
Governor of Virginia
1986 - 1989
Governor of Maine
1990 - 1995
The Honorable
George V. Voinovich
Governor of Ohio
1996 - 1998
The Honorable
Marc Racicot
Governor of Montana
1998 - 2002
Milestones
1978 – 1979
1990 – 1998
In 1978-79, state and private sector leaders in Delaware identified the
need for a comprehensive state-level approach to help at-risk youth stay
in school, find and keep jobs. This evolved into the JAG Model.
In 1990, JAG formalized the Multi-Year Program Application of the JAG
Model to serve those who had left or were at-risk of leaving the education
system before graduation. This application has been applied as a dropout
prevention and dropout recovery program in comprehensive high schools,
alternative education schools, adult education/GED programs, career and
technical centers and community colleges.
A non-profit corporation, Jobs for Delaware Graduates, was organized to
manage the test of the Model. To signal the importance of the non-profit to
Delaware, a group of policymakers, educators, employers, and senior public
and private leaders were invited to serve on the board by Governor Pete
du Pont who was elected Chairman of the Jobs for Delaware Graduates
(JDG) Board of Directors. The success of the 8-high school pilot prompted
the eventual expansion of JDG to all high schools in Delaware.
1980 – 1983
In 1980, Jobs for America’s Graduates, Inc. (JAG) was established to
demonstrate the JAG Model in additional states. JAG’s founding Board of
Directors was comprised of senior public officials and top corporate executives, including Vice President George H.W. Bush, former Vice-President
Walter Mondale and five state governors. Governor Pete du Pont was the
Founding Board Chair.
The Board’s first decision was to approve a 5 year research and demonstration project supported with funds from the U.S. Department of Labor and
three national foundations—Rockefeller, Ford and Mott. The Board set
out to determine whether, in fact, the JAG Model would help state leaders
reduce significantly youth unemployment and high dropout rates among
the nation’s most at-risk young people.
1985 – 1986
In 1986, at the request of school leaders, the Board of Directors expanded
the Senior Program Application of the JAG Model to include a new dropout
prevention model application serving non-senior students in grades 9 to
11. That decision was based on the need to deliver services at an earlier
age to prevent students from dropping out of school before graduation.
JAG launched the first test of the JAG Model in the United Kingdom called
Compact Plus Clubs. In 2013, “xl clubs” provided a personal development
program aimed at young people aged 13-19 at risk of underachievement or
exclusion from school. Prince’s Trust xl clubs are led by an existing member
of staff in the school or center, called an Adviser. There are over 900 clubs
in over 600 schools and centers across the UK. 88 percent of participants
have gone into further education, work or training upon completion of
the program.
4
2000
In 2000, JAG programs were viewed as a policy strategy. JAG seeks not only
to help at-risk students secure a quality educational experience and a job
leading to a career, but to positively influence public policy by changing
the way schools work with youth facing multiple social, academic and
economic barriers to success, and as a result, improve their educational
and employment outcomes. To support the continued development of the
JAG Model and expand the JAG National Network, the Board of Directors
approved the launch of the Trust for Jobs for America’s Graduates.
2001 – 2002
In 2001, a grant was awarded to Jobs for America’s Graduates in the
amount of $740,000. The grant was used to invest in infrastructure
development.
In 2002, a grant for one million dollars was awarded.
2003 – 2004
In 2003, a grant in the amount of one million dollars was successfully
completed by January 31, 2005.
In 2004, the JAG Board of Directors launched a strategic planning process
to develop a five-year plan.
In 2004, JAG was highlighted in Assistant Secretary of Labor’s “New
Strategic Vision for the Delivery of Youth Services under the Workforce
Investment Act.”
Julie Nixon
Eisenhower
The Honorable
Tom Vilsack
Author and Speaker
2002 - 2003
Governor of Iowa
2003 - 2004
The Honorable
John E. Baldacci
The Honorable
Janet Napolitano
The Honorable
Jack Markell
Governor of Maine
2007 - 2011
Governor of Arizona
2004 - 2006
Governor of Delaware
2011 - Current
2008 – 2010
2005 – 2006
In 2008, President Obama’s Cabinet included leaders of the JAG Board of
Directors:
• U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack
• U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan
• U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano
In addition, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus was the founder of Jobs for
Mississippi Graduates in 1990 during his service as Governor and also a
member of the JAG Board of Directors.
In 2005, the U.S. Congress approved a grant for JAG in the amount
of one million dollars and was successfully completed by December
31, 2006.
In 2005, the JAG Board of Directors approved the 2006-2010
Strategic Plan focused on expanding the value of the JAG Model to
younger students and to state policy leaders.
In 2009 and 2010, JAG launched the JAG Model in four new states and a U.S.
2006 – 2007
territory—North Dakota, South Dakota, Virgin Islands and Washington (State).
In 2006, the U.S. Department of Labor awarded a grant in the amount
of one million dollars to test the Out-of-School Program Application
of the JAG Model in three locations (Ohio, Florida, and Louisiana).
2011 - 2013
In 2007, JAG launched the Middle School Program Application
of the JAG Model in seven states and 45 middle schools. Jobs for
Maine’s Graduates first tested the Middle School Program for seven
years prior to sharing the Middle School Program with the National
Network.
In 2012, Nevada joined the JAG National Network by piloting the JAG Model
in five schools in northern Nevada.
In 2012, the Class of 2011 achieved a 94 percent graduation rate and a 22-year
graduation rate average of 91 percent.
In 2012, JAG builds on current partnerships and builds new ones in areas of
highest priority with the support of the Wal-Mart Foundation, McDonald’s,
HR Policy Association, Archer Daniels Midland Company, Maximus, AT&T
Foundation, Delta Regional Authority, Regions Bank, Bureau of Indian
Education, National Urban League and the Asian Pacific American Institute
for Congressional Studies.
In 2007, seventeen state legislatures invested in JAG Model Programs.
In 2013, Governor Sam Brownback of Kansas comitted TANF funding to launch
JAG for the first time in 25 schools; Indiana doubled from 60 to 118 programs
with $6 million from the Indiana General Assembly; Mississippi asked the state
legislature for the largest request in JMG’s history to expand from 32 to 50
schools.
The JAG National Board meeting, hosted by Governor Sandoval, was held in
Carson City, April 22-23, 2013.
Arizona
Massachusetts
Tennessee
Virginia
Ohio
Georgia
New
Hampshire
Maine
California
Mississippi
Montana
Kentucky
Louisiana
Alabama
Arkansas
Connecticut
Illinois
West Virginia
Florida
Wisconsin
Iowa
Minnesota
New Mexico
Indiana
Missouri
South Carolina
District of Columbia
Indiana
Michigan
North Dakota
South Dakota
Virgin Islands
Washington
Nevada
Kansas
1980
1981
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1993
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2004
2005
2007
2008
2009
2010
2012
2013
(The First State)
1979
Delaware
State Charter Years
5
Chairman’s Report
•
Dear Friends of Jobs for America’s Graduates:
It is my pleasure to present to you the Annual Report of Jobs for
America’s Graduates for 2013.
It was a very special year for Jobs for America’s Graduates:
•
•
•
After working hard to sustain the current levels of activities
through the difficult recession years, 2013 was a year of major
growth for the organization. Today, Jobs for America’s Graduates
is at its largest scale in many years, operating in nearly 1,000
classrooms in 31 states and serving more than 44,000 young
men and women of truly great promise.
In 2013, our Specialists on the front line once again achieved
truly extraordinary results on behalf of the young people who
often face the most daunting challenges to education and
employment success. These results included:
–
A 91 percent graduation rate in the nearly 1,000 classrooms
where we operate, from the most rural to the most urban.
–
Doubling the rate of employment for poor and
disadvantaged youth and tripling the rate of full-time
employment compared to their counterparts.
–
Doubling the rate of enrollments in higher education for
this population, almost entirely first-generation college
students.
This year, several Governors and other national leaders joined
our Board of Directors, reflecting the value that both the public
and private sectors have seen in the JAG Model. I am pleased
that Governor Brian Sandoval of Nevada continues to help lead
our organization as Vice Chair and that Governors Steve Bullock
of Montana and Mike Pence of Indiana have also agreed to serve
as Vice Chairs for 2014. It was an honor as well for Governor
John Engler, President of the Business Roundtable, and Stacey
Stewart, U.S. President of the United Way Worldwide, to join the
National Board.
We were particularly pleased that three additional states – now
a total of 20 – provided direct appropriations to support and
expand the JAG Model. Companies such as AT&T and the Delta
Regional Authority made major financial commitments to
provide new incentive grants to schools to demonstrate the
value of the JAG Model – all contributing greatly to the growth
of the organization and its continued success.
Based on this record, the Board of Directors adopted an aggressive
strategy to bring the promise of Jobs for America’s Graduates to
tens of thousands more young people in the years ahead, working in
close cooperation with Governors, State Legislatures, and the 5,000
employers who regularly hire the young people of Jobs for America’s
Graduates.
This Annual Report is a story of opportunity. It is a story of
extraordinary impact in the lives of tens of thousands of America’s
young people who offer such great promise. It is a story of hard
work and the close teamwork of young people, their families,
employers, and thousands of leaders from the schools. It is a story
of the extraordinary commitment of the 1,000 people in the front
lines of the organization who work with our young people every
day, supported by additional thousands of leaders at the national,
state, and local levels who make up the “village” that, for the 34th
consecutive year, delivered extraordinary value and results.
Please read our report. You will see the hope and opportunity
JAG brings to our national discussions on what we can achieve in
boosting high school graduation and youth employment rates
against great odds.
Sincerely,
Jack A. Markell
Governor of Delaware
Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Governor Jack A. Markell
State of Delaware
Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Today, Jobs for America’s Graduates is at
its largest scale in many years, operating in
nearly 1,000 classrooms in 31 states and
serving more than 44,000 young men and
women of truly great promise.
6
Vice Chairman’s Report
Dear Partners and Good Friends of Jobs for America’s Graduates:
It is a particular pleasure for me to join with my colleagues on the
Board of Directors in introducing the 2013 Annual Report of Jobs
for America’s Graduates. As both Governor of Montana and Vice
Chair of the JAG National Board, it is an honor to be a part of such an
extraordinary organization. The opportunity to see firsthand the truly
remarkable impact that this program brings to the lives of thousands
of young people of great promise, with the kind of opportunities and
support that make that promise real, has been extraordinary.
Here in Montana, we have in our 55 schools one of the largest
applications of Jobs for America’s Graduates in a rural setting. The
organization has been in place now for more than 20 years. It was my
pleasure as Attorney General to provide support for its growth and
now to look ahead to bringing the great success of Jobs for Montana
Graduates to 100 schools in our state over the next several years.
Jobs for Montana Graduates has set a Gold Standard of what can
be achieved through partnerships among our young people, their
families, the schools, our workforce system, state government, and
employers. The rural nature of Montana lends itself particularly well to
these kinds of strong partnerships. They come naturally here, as all of
us here in Montana are always ready to help each other.
I also wanted to highlight the sustained success of the JAG Model with
our Indian population. Jobs for Montana Graduates is the longestrunning JAG state affiliate serving Native American young people in
the country. Jobs for Montana Graduates operates in 11 schools with
primarily Native American students. Jobs for Montana Graduates has
achieved in excess of 90 percent graduation rates as we serve this
population, as has South Dakota next door to us. I believe these results
suggest what can be done at scale to help deliver on the promise
of our Indian youth by providing the right combination of support,
preparation and engagement opportunities. Therefore, part of my
agenda for Jobs for Montana Graduates is to find ways to bring the
success of Jobs for Montana Graduates to the rest of the 20 or so
schools in our state with a primarily Indian population.
Finally, let me share my perspective as a former Attorney General.
A perspective I presented to the National Association of Attorneys
General with the President of JAG, Ken Smith, a couple of years ago.
When describing the multiple returns on Montana’s and our other 30
states’ investment in Jobs for America’s Graduates, we often highlight
the extraordinary 90 percent graduation rates, the doubling of the
rates of employment for some of our most challenged youth, and the
dramatic expansion of enrollments in higher education.
However, from the perspective as Attorney General and now as
a Governor, another very important value may not be as fully
recognized. The facts are clear and compelling: If young people
graduate from high school and get a job and/or go on to higher
education, the odds of their ever being part of our criminal justice
system are relatively close to zero. On the other hand those who did
not complete high school and were unable to find a good job or go on
to higher education make up well over 80 percent of our adjudicated
population.
As I said to my colleagues among the Attorneys General then, this is
really simple: Based on JAG’s success in boosting high school graduation
and employment rates, JAG is also one of the most effective vehicles for
dramatically reducing our future needs for adjudication. Because of JAG’s
impact, we can instead devote all of those resources towards educational
and economic opportunities.
Thank you for your confidence and support of the work of Jobs for
America’s Graduates. It is a tremendous boon to the young people it
serves, to our communities, and to our states.
Sincerely,
Steve Bullock
Governor of Montana
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Governor Steve Bullock
State of Montana
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Jobs for Montana Graduates has achieved
in excess of 90 percent graduation rates as
we serve this population . . .
7
Vice Chairman’s Report
To the friends and family of Jobs for America’s Graduates:
It is my great pleasure to join my fellow governors helping to lead
the Jobs for America’s Graduates organization in presenting the 2013
Annual Report of Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG). And what a
report it is! It highlights the dramatic impact JAG has in the lives of
tens of thousands of America’s young people who too often face the
most serious of challenges. It illustrates expansion and growth of
this exceptional organization as its successful track record becomes
better known. And it displays for the world the remarkably effective
team of students, families, teachers, employers, staff, volunteers, and
financial supporters, who, working together, have built this story of
success for 34 consecutive years.
Shortly after taking office as Indiana’s 50th Governor, I worked with
the Indiana General Assembly to secure a $6 million appropriation
to double the scale of JAG-Indiana. As a state, we wanted to boost
the education and employment success rates of our young people,
and the perfect solution was JAG. It was one of Indiana’s greatest
success stories, and we were compelled to do much more in taking
it to scale. Coupled with the Workforce Investment Act and other
available resources, this appropriation doubled JAG-Indiana’s impact
on Hoosiers and will help it serve 6,000 young people through 118
programs statewide by the end of 2014. I am pleased to report that it
is the largest growth percentage in the shortest period of time in the
history of Jobs for America’s Graduates.
Every day, governors and state legislatures, school boards and
workforce boards, private companies, foundations, and individuals
must choose where to place limited financial, organizational, and
time resources. Through an ever-expanding team of one thousand
staff, thousands of teachers and administrators, and five-thousand
employers, they each have made a commitment to support tens
of thousands of young people facing challenges today. Moreover,
thousands of volunteers, advisory and oversight Board members, and
the remarkably generous financial supporters of some of America’s
great companies, United Way organizations, and individuals across
the nation have each made JAG their financial and volunteer
commitment of choice. For that dedication to our future, I offer my
profound gratitude.
JAG is a great investment of your time, talent, and treasury. For
decades to come, your support will pay dividends to individuals as
they pursue their best educational and career opportunities, improve
their own economic prosperity, build strong families, and contribute
to building enduring communities. Our states and nation as a whole
benefit when we have flourishing and engaged citizens, and Jobs
for America’s Graduates continues to deliver on the very best of the
“American Dream.”
Thank you for your confidence and your support. We will work hard
to earn it again in 2014.
Sincerely,
Michael R. Pence
Governor of Indiana
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Governor Mike Pence
State of Indiana
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
JAG-Indiana will serve 6,000 young people
through 118 programs statewide by the end
of 2014. I am pleased to report that it is the
largest growth percentage in the shortest
period of time in the history of Jobs for
America’s Graduates.
8
Vice Chairman’s Report
To the Dear “Family” of Jobs for America’s Graduates:
It is my special pleasure to join with Governor Markell and the Board
of Directors in presenting to you the 2013 highlights of one of
America’s great accomplishments: Jobs for America’s Graduates.
Here in Nevada, we launched the JAG Model in seven schools two
years ago. With the State Legislature’s support of my request for a
first-time appropriation to grow the program, we are now working to
bring Jobs for America’s Graduates to 25 schools in the next school
year and, over time, to 100 schools. Our commitment to those goals
is founded on the belief – and the experience – that JAG offers one of
the best uses of every available dollar to help achieve the education
and career goals of young people of truly special promise.
Nevada was the state hardest hit by the recession. Although we
are recovering, an important part of our youth population was
disproportionately affected by the recession. That impact has
required us to find ways to overcome the many barriers in the overall
job market for so many young people. Jobs for Nevada Graduates
has done just that, as have our Affiliate programs in 30 other states
– JAG doubles the rate at which young people who face this array of
challenges are able to secure jobs.
As we look ahead in our state to implementing ever-more
demanding education standards and as we look to the competitive
landscape in which our employers require the most enthusiastic,
dedicated, and hardworking of employees, one of our most powerful
answers is “Jobs for Nevada Graduates.”
As part of our growth strategy, we will be organizing a new nonprofit corporation with leaders from the public and private sectors
who will lead in our efforts to take Jobs for Nevada Graduates to true
statewide scale. At this new scale, we believe we will truly “move
the needle” in meeting our goals of making our state an even better
place to succeed in high school, higher education, and work.
My great appreciation to all who have helped us in Nevada and to all
of you who are helping to extend the reach and promise of Jobs for
America’s Graduates.
Thank you, and know that we in Nevada and the 30 other states will
be counting on you to help us as we seek to expand JAG in our state
and across the nation.
Brian Sandoval
Governor of Nevada
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
Governor Brian Sandoval
State of Nevada
Vice Chairman, JAG Board of Directors
JAG offers one of the best uses of every
available dollar to help achieve the education
and career goals of young people of truly
special promise.
9
President’s Report
To All Leaders of Jobs for America’s Graduates National Network:
Let me join in the congratulations to all the JAG state organization
teams for a truly extraordinary year of continued success and some
of the most important growth in our history in 2013, reflected in this
Annual Report.
As noted by the other Officers of our organization, the results are
compelling and remarkably consistent over the past 34 years,
including:
•
90% graduation rate, despite recessions, recoveries and the
states’ ever more rigorous graduation standards.
•
Doubling the rate of employment for the most high-risk,
disadvantaged and youth of color – again, at a time of the
highest unemployment among young people in American
history.
Let me make the point again that those results are consistent at scale
and over time in 1,000 communities across 31 states for the past 34
years. 2014 will be a special year for us, because sometime during
this year the one-millionth student will enroll in a Jobs for America’s
Graduates program.
That’s correct – a million young people will have been served by
this organization since its inception. We believe that the faith and
confidence placed in Jobs for America’s Graduates by those one
million young people, and the work being done by such extraordinary
JAG Specialists at the front lines, supported by great leadership staff,
the national and state Boards, and leaders from government, business
and communities, demonstrates that the nation can achieve those
kinds of outcomes on a broad national scale.
It is especially important to recognize that the one million young
people who have been part of Jobs for America’s Graduates have
demonstrated their readiness to learn, to work hard and to persevere
against the most difficult of circumstances and odds - and achieve
both academic and economic success.
We hope this report brings both hope for the future of America and
the opportunities ahead to bring Jobs for America’s Graduates to scale.
We are working hard to inform how those from federal, state and local
governments and the private sector can invest their limited resources
for much greater impact. Re-direction of those resources to Jobs for
America’s Graduates and other programs that offer similar results is a
clear pathway to greater, more consistent impact among more young
people.
In a recent Congressional hearing, when asked what should be done
about some of the major issues the nation faces, one agency leader
commented “Find out what works - and then do more of it.” That
is precisely what we will be doing in 2014 with your help and the
continued confidence and support of our young people, schools, the
5,000 employers who regularly hire JAG young people, and all of those
who invest their time, talents and financial resources in our work.
On behalf of all the young people who have benefited from your help
in 2013, thank you!
Kenneth M. Smith
President and Chief Executive Officer
Kenneth M. Smith
President and Chief Executive Officer
Jobs for America’s Graduates
2014 will be a special year for us, because
sometime during this year the one-millionth
student will enroll in a Jobs for America’s
Graduates program.
10
JAG National Network
Virgin Islands
1.Alabama
2.Arizona
3.Arkansas
4.California
5.Delaware
6.Florida
7.Georgia
8.Indiana
9.Iowa
10.Kansas
11.Kentucky
12.Louisiana
13.Maine
14.Massachusetts
15.Michigan
16.Mississippi
Virgin
17.Missouri
18.Montana
19.Nevada
20. New Hampshire
21. New Jersey
22. New Mexico
23.Ohio
24. South Carolina
25. South Dakota
26.Tennessee
27. Virgin Islands
28.Virginia
39.Washington
30. West Virginia
31.Wisconsin
Islands
JAG Network Factoids
2012-2013 School Year
Number of States: Total Number of Local Programs: • Middle School
• Multi-Year
• Alternative Education
• Senior • Out-of-School
• College Success
Total Participants Served: • Middle School
• Multi-Year
31
895
87
502
88
41
2
44,044
3,599
15,448
• Alternative Education
2,210
• Senior 4.956
• Out-of-School
1,125
• College Success
• Follow-up
11
157
58
12,648
Total State Organization Revenue: $53,050,050
Average Cost per Participant: Total JAG National Revenue: $1,205
$3,579,282
44,044}
The number of students with
barriers that JAG served
11
JAG Model
The JAG Model consists of a comprehensive set of services designed to keep young people in school
through graduation and improve the rate of success in achieving education and career goals. Nearly
995,000 young people have received JAG Model services from accredited JAG State Organizations and
JAG local programs across the JAG National Network since 1980.
The ultimate goal is for participants to receive a high school diploma (or GED if a diploma is not
feasible), secure a quality entry-level job in the workforce, pursue a postsecondary education, and/or
seek career advancement opportunities. JAG Grads are College and Career Ready!
JAG Model Components
Classroom Instruction. A trained “JAG
Summer Employment Training. Job
Specialist” provides individual and group
instruction to 35-45 students carefully selected by
an in-school advisory committee, comprised of
faculty, administrators and counselors. JAG classes
are scheduled during the school day for credit.
placement is provided during summer months
as well as partnerships with summer youth
employment programs to support year-long
learning.
Competency-Based Curriculums. The
995,000
Nearly 995,000 young
people have received
JAG Model services
from accredited
JAG State Organizations
and local programs across
the JAG National Network
since 1980.
JAG National Curriculum equips students with a
minimum of 37 employability competencies and
intensive career exploration and developmental
opportunities. As many as 88 competencies may
be completed for students enrolled in high school
(grades 9-12).
Adult Mentoring. JAG Specialists provide
individual attention to students to overcome
barriers that prevent them from taking advantage
of their high school education, completing
requirements for a high school diploma and/or
securing employment or pursuing a postsecondary
education leading to a career after high school (or
GED completion).
Advisement and Support. JAG Specialists
provide advice and support as students make
significant career and life decisions and serves as
a “one-stop” connection for participants to access
personal, psychological, and other youth services
in the community.
Student-Led Leadership Development.
A highly motivational student-led organization—
the JAG National Career Association—provides
opportunities for students to develop, practice, and
refine their leadership and team membership skills.
Job and Postsecondary Education
Placement Services. Specialists identify job
opportunities for graduates and assist graduates
in the exploration of postsecondary education
opportunities and help graduates navigate the
financial aid enrollment process to pursue a
degree.
12-Month Follow-up Services. JAG provides
no less than twelve months of follow-up services
and support to graduates for employment and/or
postsecondary enrollment.
Accountability System. A comprehensive,
internet-based tracking and reporting system
that tracks vital information in three categories—
students served, services delivered and outcomes
achieved. JAG is an evidence-based organization
that uses metrics to reward performance, identify
best practices and for continuous improvement.
The JAG Model is cost-effective with a cost per participant that can be recovered in taxes paid in
only 14 months of full-time employment.
12
JAG Program APPLICATIONS
JAG offers its state organizations and local programs a battery of six tested and proven program
applications to serve students in middle school, high school, out-of-school, and college:
Middle School Program Application
6th to 8th Graders
The objectives include:
u
Students will stay in school and successfully transition from
the 8th to the 9th grade and graduate with a high school
diploma.
u
Students will improve their academic performance, school
behavior, attendance, participation and self-esteem.
Senior Program Application
12th Graders
Students are targeted in the 12th grade because it is believed
that they will be unable to overcome academic, economic, family
or personal barriers in their final year of high school. The Senior
Program focuses on graduation (first), then, a positive destination
(job, postsecondary education and/or military). JAG does not take
credit for outcomes until successful completion of requirements for
a high school diploma or a GED certificate.
u
Students will improve their skills in leading and being an
effective member of a team.
Multi-Year Program Application
9th to 12th Graders
The focus of the Multi-Year Program is dropout prevention,
retention and graduation. Students who are likely to drop out of
school before graduation are targeted in a dropout prevention
program. Students in the Multi-Year Program normally possess
more barriers to success (on average) than students in the Senior
Program. The JAG National In-School Curriculum, consisting of
88 competency-based modules, provides 880 hours of classroom
instruction over a 4-year period.
Alternative Education Program Application
9th to 12th Graders
Students in the Alternative Education (AE) Program possess multiple
barriers to success compared to those in the Multi-Year or Senior
Year Programs. Performance outcomes are the same for all high
school programs although standards for AE programs are aligned to
the population served.
College Success Program Application
1st & 2nd Years
The objectives include:
u
Connect students to a postsecondary education and careers
after high school.
u
Enhance the collegiate experience of JAG graduates.
u
Encourage persistence in achieving academic goals.
u
Elevate career aspirations.
The only postsecondary JAG Model program is designed to increase
the number of students enrolling and completing their academic
and career goals and successfully transition from college into
careers within their home state.
Out-of-School Program Application
Dropout Recovery
Young people (ages 15 to 21) who drop out of high school are
served in the Out-of-School Program Application.
The key components include:
u
Completion of a GED (or a high school diploma).
u
Mastering the JAG competency-based employability
curriculum.
u
Attaining occupational specific training (if available).
u
Achieving a positive destination, i.e., a quality job leading to
career advancement opportunities or the pursuit of a post-
secondary education to enhance career advancement
opportunities.
More information is available for the six program applications on the JAG website—www.jag.org or by emailing [email protected].
13
Class of 2013
NUMBER OF PROGRAMS
Characteristics
Senior
Programs
Multi-Year
Programs
Alternative
Education
Programs
Middle School
Programs
Out-of-School
Programs
College
Success
Program
Total
Programs
(Classroom)
Number of Programs
157
502
88
87
41
2
895
Percentage
18%
56%
10%
10%
5%
1%
100%
Average # of
Participants
32
31
25
41
27
29
31
There was a net increase of seventeen (17) programs from the Class of 2012 (878 programs) to the Class of 2013 (895 programs). The greatest
increase occurred in Alternative Education Programs with a 54 program increase. Program losses also occurred in Senior Programs (-14), Outof-School Programs (-10), and Multi-Year Programs (-2). The JAG standard for enrollment in a JAG Model program is 35-45 participants. Middle
School Programs (serving 6th to 8th grade students) are in compliance with the JAG standard with an average enrollment of 41 students. All
other JAG Model programs have unused capacity meaning that they could serve more students and be within the JAG Model standard of 35-45
students. The program cost can be reduced by increasing the number of students served.
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
Senior
Programs
Multi-Year
Programs
Alternative
Education
Programs
Middle School
Programs
Out-of-School
Programs
College
Success
Program
Total
Participants
(Classroom)
Number of
Participants
4,956
15,448
2,210
3,599
1,125
58
27,396
Percentage
18%
56%
8%
13%
4%
1%
100%
Characteristics
The Multi-Year Program offers the greatest flexibility to schools to recruit students for the JAG Program Roster from the 9th to 12th grades. The
second most popular program is the Senior Program serving students in the 12th grade only. The third largest and fastest growing JAG Model
program is for Middle School students (grades 6-8). The fourth largest program is the Alternative Education Program and has experienced
considerable growth due to serving students in alternative education settings and/or those unable to be served in a traditional school program.
Four percent of JAG participants are served in an Out-of-School Program. The College Success Program was designed and is being tested in
Iowa. Given the retention issues facing postsecondary institutions, the JAG College Success Program has the capability to increase the retention
rate in 2- and 4-year institutions. There are several JAG state organizations developing plans to launch College Success Programs in partnership
with higher education institutions.
GENDER
Senior
Programs
Multi-Year
Programs
Alternative
Education
Programs
Middle School
Programs
Out-of-School
Programs
College
Success
Program
Total
Participants
(Classroom)
Male
45%
48%
54%
54%
52%
42%
49%
Female
55%
52%
46%
46%
48%
58%
51%
Characteristics
Overall, the JAG National Network has done an exceptional job of maintaining a nearly 50-50 balance in recruiting males and females to JAG
Model programs.
14
Barriers To Success
Senior
Programs
Multi-Year
Programs
Alternative
Education
Programs
Middle School
Programs
Out-of-School
Programs
Total Network
(Classroom)
2013 Average
Barriers
5.95
7.10
8.23
6.74
8.81
6.99
2012 Average
Barriers
5.92
7.15
7.86
6.49
8.31
6.90
Characteristics
JAG Specialists enter a Participant Profile into the Electronic National Data Management System (e-NDMS) which includes a set of 36 researchbased barriers to success. Specialists are expected to use the JAG methodology and tools to remove or neutralize the barriers if at all possible
to keep the program participant in school through graduation, to help them become employable (job ready) and/or enroll in a postsecondary
institution leading to a career. Participants in an Out-of-School Program and an Alternative Education Program have the greatest barriers to
success (8.81 to 8.23). In addition to identifying the barriers upon entry into the program, Specialists are expected to track “barrier status” to
identify the barriers that are removed or neutralized during the participant’s enrollment in the program. The barriers are also used to direct the
Individual Development Plan (IDP) which will be available when e-NDMS 2.0 is launched in 2014.
Selected Barriers to Success
Senior
Programs
Multi-Year
Programs
Alternative
Education
Programs
Middle School
Programs
Out-of-School
Programs
Total Network
(Classroom)
W.2 – Having inadequate or no
work experience
85%
87%
79%
73%
83%
84%
W.3 – Lacks marketable
occupational skills that are in
demand in the local labor market
83%
84%
78%
59%
80%
81%
W.1 – Economically disadvantaged
as defined by public assistance,
TANF, or free lunch
83%
66%
60%
71%
64%
64%
P.2 – Lacks motivation or maturity
to pursue education or career
goals
41%
55%
50%
69%
50%
54%
A.7 – A past record of excessive
absences as verified by school
officials
40%
40%
50%
34%
53%
40%
E.15 – Needs transportation to and
from work or school
32%
40%
44%
25%
45%
37%
A.3 – Low academic performance
29%
45%
64%
47%
52%
44%
E.4 – Mother does not work
27%
28%
28%
27%
29%
28%
A.4 – Basic skills deficient
20%
28%
35%
32%
43%
28%
A.8 – Has been suspended,
expelled or put on probation
during high school
20%
26%
35%
21%
34%
26%
A.9 – Has dropped out of school
previously
1%
1%
5%
0.45
50%
3%
Characteristics
JAG Grads: College and Career Ready
15
Performance Outcomes - Classes of 1990 to 2013
JAG Classes
Graduation
Goal-90%
Positive
Outcomes
Goal-80%
Job Placement
Goal-60%
Full-time Jobs
Goal-60%
Full-time
Placement
Goal-80%
Unable to
Contact Goal
≤5%
Further
Education
Rate
Average
Wage
1990
90%
78%
59%
64%
NA
NA
NA
$5.12
1991
91%
80%
59%
59%
NA
NA
NA
$5.24
1992
91%
79%
57%
60%
NA
NA
33%
$5.30
1993
91%
80%
60%
62%
80%
NA
35%
$5.38
1994
88%
81%
61%
68%
84%
NA
35%
$5.70
1995
89%
82%
60%
55%
85%
NA
38%
$6.02
1996
90%
82%
60%
66%
86%
NA
39%
$6.22
1997
90%
82%
60%
66%
86%
NA
39%
$6.48
1998
91%
69%
50%
68%
89%
NA
34%
$6.53
1999
91%
66%
54%
76%
87%
25%
21%
$6.90
2000
88%
73%
54%
72%
90%
18%
35%
$7.28
2001
85%
72%
51%
68%
89%
20%
21%
$7.44
2002
85%
72%
52%
66%
88%
19%
20%
$7.54
2003
93%
72%
50%
67%
86%
17%
36%
$7.08
2004
91%
73%
50%
62%
87%
17%
41%
$6.70
2005
92%
73%
52%
67%
89%
18%
39%
$7.00
2006
94%
78%
57%
66%
88%
16%
41%
$7.40
2007
94%
83%
60%
67%
90%
9%
46%
$8.05
2008
94%
79%
57%
66%
89%
10%
46%
$8.10
2009
94%
81%
55%
66%
88%
9%
48%
$8.09
2010
93%
79%
54%
67%
88%
12%
47%
$8.07
2011
94%
78%
54%
68%
89%
14%
45%
$8.11
2012
93%
77%
55%
70%
89%
16%
43%
$8.22
2013
91%
79%
59%
71%
90%
14%
43%
$8.48
24-Year
Average
91%77%56%66%87%16%37%$6.87
High
Average
Low
94%83%61%76%90%
9%
48%$8.48
Dr. Andrew Sum, Director of the Center for Labor Market Studies, was the
original architect of the standards of the JAG Model and since the early 80’s
has prepared dozens of research papers designed to answer these key policy
research questions for the nation’s recent high school graduates through an
in-depth analysis of their college enrollment and labor market experiences.
Dr. Sum stresses that work is good in improving both academic and future
earnings while in high school and beyond.
16
Competency-Based
Curriculum Resources
The National High School Curriculum for the In-School Program Applications (Senior Year and Multi-Year) is comprised of 88 competencybased modules. The 88 competency-based modules provide 880 hours of content, activities, reading and math exercises, competencybased tests, and suggested methodology. The Senior Year Program focuses on the 37 core competencies (A.1 to F.37) in the 12th Grade.
The Multi-Year Program accesses the 88 core competencies (A.1 to I.88) in the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades. Employers were asked
to validate the core competencies (A.1 to F.37) for the Senior Program and the 88 competencies (A.1 to I.88) as well as the 20 Out-ofSchool Program Competencies (OS-1 to OS-20). The 42 National Middle School Curriculum competencies (7th and 8th grades) have been
reviewed by employers, principals, counselors and curriculum specialists.
National High School Curriculum
A.Career Development Competencies
A.1
A.2
Identify occupational interests, aptitudes and abilities
Relate interests, aptitudes and abilities to appropriate
occupations
A.3 Identify desired life style and relate to selected occupations
A.4 Develop a career path for a selected occupation
A.5 Select an immediate job goal
A.6 Describe the conditions and specifications of the job goal
B.Job Attainment Competencies
B.7
B.8
B.9
B.10
B.11
B.12
B.13
Construct a résumé
Conduct a job search
Develop a letter of application
Use the telephone to arrange an interview
Complete application forms
Complete employment tests
Complete a job interview
C.Job Survival Competencies
C.14
C.15
C.16
C.17
C.18
C.19
C.20
Demonstrate appropriate appearance
Understand what employers expect of employees
Identify problems of new employees
Demonstrate time management
Follow directions
Practice effective human relations
Appropriately resign from a job
D.Basic Competencies
D.21
D.22
D.23
D.24
D.25
Comprehend verbal communications
Comprehend written communications
Communicate in writing
Communicate verbally
Perform mathematical calculations
E.Leadership and Self Development Competencies
E.26
E.27
E.28
E.29
E.30
Demonstrate team membership
Demonstrate team leadership
Deliver presentations to a group
Compete successfully with peers
Demonstrate commitment to an organization
F.Personal Skills Competencies
F.31
F.32
F.33
F.34
F.35
Understand types of maturity
Identify a self-value system and how it affects life
Base decisions on values and goals
Identify process of decision-making
Demonstrate ability to assume responsibility for actions and
decisions
F.36 Demonstrate a positive attitude
F.37 Develop healthy self-concept for home, school and work
G.Life Survival Skills
G.38 Evaluate a career plan to determine appropriate
postsecondary educational options
G.39 Identify how best to achieve marketable occupation skills for
an entry level job
G.40 Conduct a job analysis
G.41 Apply critical thinking skills
G.42 Demonstrate effective study skills
G.43 Demonstrate how to use group dynamics techniques
G.44 Explain the roles and function of a value-added organization
G.45 Understand the essential elements of high performing work
teams
G.46 Describe how to work and communicate with diverse people
at work and in the community to satisfy their expectations
G.47 Demonstrate techniques for building commitment by others
G.48 Demonstrate an openness to change
G.49 Provide constructive feedback
G.50 Negotiate solutions to conflicts
G.51 Demonstrate politeness and civility
G.52 Demonstrate an ability to adapt to people and situations
G.53 Exhibit work ethics and behaviors essential to success
G.54 Set and prioritize goals and establish a timeline for achieving
them
G.55 Apply the problem solving process to complex problems
G.56 Demonstrate an ability to analyze the strengths and
weaknesses of self and others
G.57 Design and justify solutions by tracking and evaluating results
G.58 Identify ways to build mutual trust and respect
G.59 Prepare a short- and long-term personal budget
H.Workplace Competencies
H.60
H.61
H.62
H.63
H.64
H.65
H.66
H.67
H.68
H.69
H.70
H.71
Demonstrate punctuality and good attendance practices
Demonstrate initiative and proactivity
Demonstrate how to work effectively with others
Demonstrate an attitude that attracts the attention of
management
Demonstrate an ability to communicate and work with
customers to satisfy their expectations
Demonstrate listening skills which will result in gaining a clear
understanding of information being conveyed
Demonstrate an ability to follow and give directions
Demonstrate good reasoning skills which results in thinking
first, then taking action
Demonstrate integrity and honesty in dealings with internal
and external customers
Demonstrate a willingness to accept responsibility for one’s
own actions
Demonstrate a commitment in completing work assignments
accurately and in a timely fashion
Demonstrate an ability to satisfy the purposes of a delegated
task
17
H.72 Demonstrate an ability to prioritize and manage time effectively
in the workplace
H.73 Demonstrate enthusiasm for work
H.74 Demonstrate an eagerness to learn new responsibilities or
improve current responsibilities
H.75 Demonstrate an understanding of the work to be accomplished
H.76 Demonstrate familiarity with a variety of technologies
H.77 Demonstrate an ability to self-evaluate and develop a continuous
improvement (career development) plan
H.78 Demonstrate basic computer operation skills
H.79 Demonstrate an ability to learn from past experiences and others
H.80 Demonstrate an ability to send, receive and organize e-mail
messages
H.81 Demonstrate an ability to search for information on the Internet
P.
Character Development Competencies
P.123
P.124
P.125
P.126
P.127
Explain the significance of respect for self, others and rules
Explain the value of good character
Explain the benefit of a positive attitude
State the benefits of being perceived as a person of good character
Demonstrates effective leadership skills
I.Economic Empowerment Competencies
R.
I.82
R.131 Apply concepts related to living on their own in the “real world”
R.132 Access key local resources
R.133 Demonstrate understanding of earning, spending and saving
R.134 Develop a budget
I.83
I.84
I.85
I.86
I.87
I.88
Understand Insurance—Auto, Renters, Home, Health, Disability
and Life (Allstate)
Practice Better Money Management Skills (Visa U.S.A.)
www.practicalmoneyskills.com
Demonstrate How to Start a Small Business (Allstate)
Be successful in dealing with law enforcement when they are
enforcing the law (Allstate)
Valuing Diversity (Allstate)
Risky Business (Allstate and National Council on Economic
Education)
Financial Tools for Everyday Living (Western Union)
National Middle School 7th Grade Curriculum
J.
Self-Understanding Competencies
J.101
J.102
J.103
J.104
J.105
J.106
Identify, understand and apply knowledge of social roles
Participate in assessments and utilize results
Articulate personal values
Identify, understand and effectively manage emotions
Demonstrate ability to make healthy choices
Identify and understand personal interests, aptitudes
and abilities
K.
Communications Competencies
K.107 Differentiate between opinion and fact
K.108 Identify and demonstrate key communication skills
K.109 Express needs and wants
K.110 Listen and contribute appropriately in a group situation
L.
Organizational Skills Competencies
L.111 Use a method of time management
L.112 Establish long- and short-term goals
L.113 Demonstrate organizational skills
M.
Study Skills Competencies
M.114Use basic study skills effectively
M.115Use knowledge of personal learning style in study habits
M.116Explain the value of completed homework
N.
Decision Making Competencies
N.117 Demonstrate an understanding of decision making
N.118 Explain the importance of taking responsibility for actions and
behaviors
N.119 Demonstrate appropriate anger control techniques
N.120 Demonstrate appropriate conflict resolution techniques
N.121 Develop and implement a Personal Development Plan
N.122 Define and demonstrate empathy
18
National Middle School 8th Grade Curriculum
Q.
Dreamwork Competencies
Q.128Develop a career or educational plan which reflects personal
goals, interests and skills
Q.129Describe the future, including personal and career potential
Q.130Demonstrate understanding of social and cultural diversity
S.
Lifestyles Competencies
Negotiations Competencies
S.135 Define “negotiation” and give examples of everyday negotiations
that take place in a student’s life and society
S.136 Explain the reasons for and benefits of negotiation related to self
and counterpart
S.137 Describe the process of negotiation
T.
Career-Based Learning Competencies
T.138 Explain the difference between a job and a career
T.139 Demonstrate an understanding of skills and abilities necessary
for success in a job
T.140 Identify skills necessary for career choice
T.141 Demonstrate understanding of the job application process
T.142 Explain the value of job shadowing
National Out-of-School Curriculum
OS-1
OS-2
OS-3
OS-4
OS-5
Identify occupational interests, aptitudes and abilities
Design a personal resume
Conduct a comprehensive job search
Write a cover letter for a job application
Complete a job application and accompanying employment
tests
OS-6 Demonstrate job interviewing skills
OS-7 Dress appropriately for a job interview
OS-8 Determine employer expectations of employees
OS-9 Demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with others
OS-10Demonstrated effective decision-making and problem solving
skills
OS-11Demonstrate positive attitudes, work ethics and behaviors
OS-12Demonstrate the ability to accept responsibility for one’s own
actions
OS-13Demonstrate effective conflict resolution skills
OS-14Demonstrate the ability to establish realistic goals and priorities
OS-15Demonstrate effective money management skills (e.g. personal/
family budget, credit, etc.)
OS-16Demonstrate an ability to communicate and work with
customers to satisfy expectations
OS-17Demonstrate basic computer skills
OS-18Demonstrate the ability to objectively evaluate one’s job-related
skills
OS-19Explore opportunities for personal development (e.g., further job
training, postsecondary education)
OS-20Demonstrate effective independent living skills (e.g., renting an
apartment, shipping, insurance)
Alumni Spotlight
Jobs for America’s Graduates is proud of its long history of success working to help resolve the nation’s
dropout and youth unemployment problems. Below are spotlights on six unique JAG Alumni and their
post-graduation experiences in a JAG Model program.
Clarence Mingo II
Class of 1990
Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG)
Clarence Mingo II serves as Auditor for Franklin County in Columbus, Ohio. He is a proud graduate of Canton
McKinley Senior High School and was a participant in Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates during the 1989-1990 school
year. Anne Ferguson was his Job Specialist.
Academically, Clarence’s senior year of high school was difficult. He struggled to earn strong passing grades in
nearly all of his classes, and needed a lift in self-confidence suggesting that he had potential and could excel in
life.
Clarence said, “The JOG program was that lift. Through this program, I was taught the importance of professional
speech and conduct, and was reminded of the importance of displaying high character in every setting. I learned
that although academically my grades reflected C’s, I controlled exclusively the stature of my speech, conduct,
and character.”
During the JOG program, Clarence was reminded of the importance of displaying excellence in character, and that this display was just as
important as his academic transcript. His confidence was indeed lifted as he recognized that he could excel in the display of good character and
honorable conduct. Clarence explained, “I carried this JOG taught concept with me into the United States Army, across the campus of The Ohio
State University, into the courtrooms of Ohio, onto the field of public service, and finally into the practices used to parent my two wonderful
daughters.”
Clarence keynoted the 2014 Ohio State Career Development Conference and proudly stated, “I am grateful to the JOG program and instructors
for the life lessons and reminder to pursue good character above all, and to excel at it in every life endeavor.”
*Photo by Chip Harris, The Charleston WV Gazette
Josh Miller
Class of 2004
Jobs for West
Virginia’s Graduates
Josh Miller, now
29 years old and
living in his own
home in Lewisburg,
West Virginia, is not
typical of students
who enroll in a
Jobs for America’s
Graduates program. But then, none of our participants are typical.
Most of us have twenty-three pairs of chromosomes in the nucleus of
each cell in our bodies; one of each pair inherited from each parent.
That unique pairing of forty-six microscopic parts of our parents
determines everything from the color of our eyes to the shape of our
face. Josh, however, has more than forty-six chromosomes. He has
at least a partial extra copy of Chromosome 21; a condition called
Down’s Syndrome.
Josh has never allowed his disability to limit the possibilities for his
future, however. While a student at Greenbrier East High School, Josh
enrolled in Jobs for West Virginia’s Graduates. “It was awesome,” he
recalled recently. “I learned lots of things about things!”
And those “things” helped shape and open up Josh’s future. Josh
earned his high school diploma at GEHS, and now owns his own
home and works at the local Walmart. But that’s not what’s most
exciting about Josh. The Charleston Gazette recently ran a feature
article about Josh. Reporter Judy E. Hamilton wrote, “Lewisburg-
based artist Josh Miller is about one of the nicest guys you’ll ever
meet — a sincere handshake and a gentle smile seals the deal on
making a great first impression — and his distinctive art is causing
quite a buzz, too.”
Josh learned about resume and interview skills in his JAG class, but he
also learned how to greet people with a firm handshake, how to make
eye contact, and how to speak confidently to people he may not
know. He also learned about entrepreneurship, and that has changed
his life. What started as a hobby of drawing with Sharpie markers has
become a source of both fame and financial support for Josh.
“Josh Miller is an example of the impact that the Greenbrier East High
School JWVG program has on the lives of the participating students,”
said Jeff Bryant, GEHS Principal. “I state without reservation that Josh
Miller’s involvement with the JWVG program provided him with the
tools, skills, support and confidence to allow for him to become a
creative and positively contributing member to the community both
locally and regionally.”
Five years ago Josh had his first show at Studio 40, a Lewisburg
gallery operated by his mother. Since then, his fame has spread. Josh
has displayed and sold his work twice at Charleston, West Virginia’s
FestivAll, an annual week-long art, music and literature celebration.
He recently completed a one-man show at a Charleston art gallery.
Next up is a show at Carnegie Hall West Virginia. His work is already
in the collections of some of West Virginia’s biggest art collectors,
and he has an opportunity to illustrate a children’s book in the near
future.
None of our students are typical, but many of them are extraordinary.
Josh Miller is but one example of how JAG supports success.
*Copyright 2014 The Charleston Gazette. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
19
Alumni Spotlight
Heather Bartlet Douglass
Class of 2001
Jobs for Maine’s Graduates
Heather joined the Jobs for Maine’s Graduates program her sophomore year at Hodgdon High School in the
rural community of Hodgdon, Maine. “I didn’t know exactly what JMG was at the time, but knew I wanted to
be involved. The class was always doing fun things in the community and Mr. Reece’s classroom was a popular
hangout spot,” she said. That fall, their class was introduced to the job employment process: job search, resume
writing, filling out applications, and the interview process. “I’m honestly surprised that the skills JMG teaches
its students are not required in the standard curriculum. I feel as though members of our class had a major
advantage over our peers when we entered the job force or even college. It was, without a doubt, THE class that
prepared me for the ‘real world,’” Douglass said. Heather served as Vice President of the Career Association her
junior year and then President during her senior year. She learned invaluable leadership and management skills
that helped her get where she is today.
Following high school graduation in 2001, Heather enrolled as a psychology major at the University of Southern Maine and was working parttime in customer service at Hannaford. “I’m still fascinated by the way the human brain works, but the coursework wasn’t quite the direction I
was anticipating.” So she decided to take a break from college and started as a temporary receptionist at Shipyard Brewing Company in October
2002 and was hired on full-time in January. “The president of the company sent me to classes for graphic design. I never had an interest in art
and certainly couldn’t draw; two things that I thought were required for that career path. But, I loved the company and its people and knew I was
being presented an opportunity to learn a completely new skill set,” she said. Twelve years later, Douglass is still with the company, which has
grown in popularity and is the 15th largest brewery in the nation. Today, she remains part of the art team and creates product sheets, menus,
and ads for the sales team. She also leads the company’s export program and overseas sales and marketing for Canada, England, Sweden,
Italy, and Brazil. Recently, she helped implement an employee volunteer and recognition program. “I have been presented with such amazing
opportunities. I’m thankful for the skills and leadership aptitudes that I learned in JMG early on. I learned to be confident and how to work
toward and attain the goals that I set for myself. I didn’t imagine this career path at 18, but I can’t imagine being anywhere else now. Everyone’s
path is different, rather it be college or straight into the workforce. JMG gives you the tools that allow you to reach your fullest potential.”
Kenonte Turner
Class of 2011
Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates
Kenonte attended Benton
Harbor High School and
graduated in 2011. He went
on to be an Honors Junior at
Jackson State University where
he studied Biology with a
concentration in Pre-Medicine.
His JAG Specialist, Olivia Hilerio,
was a great inspiration to him.
Kenonte reflected on his time
with JAG:
“The time spent in JAG was a very critical time frame for me. Prior to,
I was lost; hiding my talents in an attempt to fit in with everyone else.
Once I enrolled in JAG, my teacher, Olivia Hilerio, embraced me and
showed me that it was okay to be myself. She inspired me to pursue
all of the things that I could only dream of at the time. Ms. Hilerio,
alongside the teachings of JAG, served as a catalyst for success in my
life. It opened many doors for me. Giving me my first two internships,
instilling within me a drive like none other, and simply giving me hope
that I could achieve greatness if I put my mind to it; JAG has greatly
impacted my life and, without it, I wouldn’t be the person that I am
today. I am truly appreciative and I would recommend participation in
this program to ANY student.”
Kenonte has been involved in many research programs and is a student
researcher in the Research Initiative for the Scientific Enhancement
Program. In addition, Kenonte is a Department of Homeland
Security Scholar and studies genomic sequences. He credits his
accomplishments to the development he acquired in his JAG program.
20
Susan Dickey Hedalen
Class of 2000
Jobs for Montana’s Graduates
During the first part of her
high school career Susan
did not belong to any clubs,
groups, or sports teams.
Her high school counselor
recommended the JAG
program to her and she had
heard great things from her
friends that were involved
in it. She joined JMG and
began learning valuable job
and life skills. “I formed an incredible bond with my teacher Mary
Catherine Racicot and through the JMG program she helped me to
find confidence in myself as well as get on the right track toward
graduation and a career.”
Susan found that one of her greatest strengths was public speaking,
through competitions that she participated in JMG. In 2000, Susan
won a gold medal in public speaking at state and at the National
Student Leadership Academy. She discovered that what she gained
was worth much more than medals, she acquired self-confidence,
self-worth, and a purpose.
Susan used the experience and knowledge developed in Jobs for
America’s Graduates to lead a successful and rewarding life. “I taught
elementary school in Montana for six years and I am now a school
superintendent in Montana. I have enjoyed passing on the skills and
confidence to my students that I learned through the JMG program
and from my excellent teachers and role models while I was in high
school. I never thought I would still be in school but I found that
making a difference for students as Mary Catherine and JAG did for
me is my passion.”
JAG Board Meeting
(End-of-Year)
Washington, D.C. • November 21, 2013
The Board of Directors meeting was held on the morning
of November 21, 2013 at the Washington Hilton Hotel.
Board members attending their first Board meeting included: Marc Morial,
President of the National Urban League; Stacey Stewart, U.S. President,
United Way Worldwide; U.S. Congressman Aaron Schock; Dr. Melody
Schopp, South Dakota Secretary of Education; and, Dr. Alan Drimmer,
Chief Academic Officer, University of Phoenix. The Board approved:
• The Plan of Work for 2014, carefully developed with the advice and
counsel of the State Affiliates and with the guidance of the Board
from the April meeting.
• The Budget for 2014 (essentially a “flat” budget compared to 2013).
(L-R) Ken Smith, Governor Jack Markell and Tom Tauke
• The election of officers and directors.
• Renewal and extension of the two management contracts.
• The retention of the current auditors for 2013 and 2014.
• The proposed growth strategy and new efforts to enhance the
academic and employment experiences of young people who will
participate in Jobs for America’s Graduates over the next year.
• The plans to ensure that the young people of Jobs for America’s
Graduates are able to meet the Common Core Standards or, in
some cases, career and college-ready as well as other new higher
standards being established across the nation for graduation.
(L-R) Congressman Schock, FL Speaker Weatherford and John Castellani
• The Resource Development strategy for 2014 to finance the
budget.
The Board also considered an invitation by the U.S. Agency for
International Development to explore taking the success of Jobs for
America’s Graduates to selected countries in Latin America.
(L-R) China Gorman and Congressman Schock
JAG Board of Directors
(L-R) John Steele and Alan Drimmer
Carolyn Warner and Ken Smith
(L-R) Scott Sanders and Carolyn Warner
21
2013 JAG Board Officers and Members
Board Officers
The Honorable
Jack Markell
Chairman
Governor of Delaware
The Honorable
Steve Bullock
Vice Chair
Governor of Montana
Governors
The Honorable
Jan Brewer
Governor of Arizona
The Honorable
Phil Bryant
Governor of Mississippi
The Honorable
John de Jongh
Governor of
Virgin Islands
The Honorable
Mike Beebe
Governor of Arkansas
Community Leaders
The Honorable
Mike Pence
Vice Chair
Governor of Indiana
The Honorable
Brian Sandoval
Vice Chair
Governor of Nevada
JAG
Ms. Julie Nixon
Eisenhower
Author
Mr. Marc Morial
President and CEO
National Urban League
Ms. Stacey Stewart
U.S. President
United Way Worldwide
Education Leaders
The Honorable
Mr. Kenneth M. Smith
Thomas J. Tauke
JAG President
Chair, Executive Committee
Chairman, Strategic
Executive Vice President, Verizon
Partnerships, LLC
The Honorable
Randy Dorn
State Superintendent
State of Washington
Dr. Sharon Robinson
President & CEO
American Association
of Colleges for Teacher
Education
Mr. Roger Sampson
Former President
Education Commission
of the States
The Honorable
Melody Schopp
South Dakota
Secretary of Education
The JAG Board Officers and Members includes those from America’s most
Ms. Carolyn Warner
JAG Treasurer
President
Corporate Education
Consulting, Inc.
Ms. China Gorman
JAG Secretary
Chief Executive Officer
Great Place to Work®
conscientious and concerned companies who support the organization and
the young people of JAG.
Honorary Members
The Honorable
John E. Baldacci
Governor of Maine
(2003-2011)
22
The Honorable
Thomas R. Carper
United States Senator
State of Delaware
(2001-current)
The Honorable
Chester “Chet” Culver
Governor of Iowa
(2007-2011)
The Honorable
John Hoeven
United States Senator
State of North Dakota
(2011-current)
The Honorable
Marc Racicot
Governor of Montana
(1983-2001)
The Honorable
George V. Voinovich
United States Senator
State of Ohio
(1999-2011)
Government Leaders
The Honorable
Mark Butler
Commissioner
Georgia Department
of Labor
General David
Poythress
Retired, Georgia
National Guard
The Honorable
Aaron Schock
U.S. Congressman
IL-18
The Honorable
Donne Trotter
Illinois State
Senator
The Honorable
Will Weatherford
Speaker, Florida House
of Representatives
The Honorable
Steve Wise
Florida
State Senator
Corporate Leaders
Ms. Danitra Barnett
Vice President
U.S. Human Resources
Operations
McDonald’s USA
Mr. Siegfried Behrens
Managing Partner
ValueBridge
International
Mr. Linden S. Blue
Vice Chairman
General Atomics
Ms. Adriane Brown
President and Chief
Operating Officer
Intellectual Ventures
Mr. Lawrence Caruso
Retired
General Electric
Company
Mr. John Castellani
President and CEO
Pharmaceutical Research
and Manufacturers of
America
Mr. Tim Daly
Senior Vice President
of Global Public
Policy, Western
Union
Mr. Michael D’Ambrose
Senior Vice President
Human Resources
Archer Daniels Midland
Ms. Margo Day
Vice President of U.S.
Education
Microsoft
Ms. Shelley Dinehart
Vice President of
Human Resources
JPMorgan Chase
Dr. Alan Drimmer
Chief Academic Officer
Apollo Group
Mr. James J. Duffy
Chief Human
Resource Officer
Ally Financial
Ms. Anna Marie Dunlap
Senior Vice President
Investor Relations/
Public Communications
Public Corinthian
Colleges, Inc.
Governor John Engler
President
Business Roundtable
Mr. Joseph Griesedieck
Vice Chairman
Korn/Ferry
Mr. Stephen Heyman
Vice President and
Head of State
Government Affairs
UnitedHealth Group
Mr. Edward J. Hoff
Human Resources
Vice President
Global Sales and
Sales Incentive
IBM Corporation
Ms. Charlene Lake
Senior Vice President
of Public Affairs and
chief Sustainability
Officer, AT&T
Mr. Brian Malnak
Vice President of
Government Affairs
Shell Oil Company
Mr. Scott Nelson
Vice President of
Communications
and Public Affairs
Educational Testing
Service
Mr. Mark Nicholls
Retired
Bank of America
Mr. Richard Nordstrom
Northstream
Communications, LLC
Mr. Sean O’Hollaren
Senior Vice President
Government and
Public Relations Nike, Inc.
Ms. Catherine McKee
Olesen
Retired
General Dynamics
Decision Systems
Ms. Janet Parker
Executive Vice President
Human Resources
Regions Financial
Corporation
International, Inc.
Mr. Martin Shultz
Senior Policy Director
Brownstein Hyatt
Farber Schreck
Mr. John Steele
Senior Vice President
Human Resources
HCA, Hospital
Corporation of America
Mr. Richard A. Stoff
President
Ohio Business
Roundtable
23
JAG Partnerships
JAG builds on current partnerships and creates new ones
in areas of highest priority.
Growth PARTNERSHIPS
Based upon the adoption by the Board of Directors in 2012 of three new growth strategies, JAG
partnered with:
• JAG is in its second year of the two year commitment of $1million from the AT&T Foundation grant, which provided
partial incentive grants to nearly 60 new and existing schools to both grow and sustain the JAG program. This strategy
allows long-term growth for the JAG National Network and a permanent change in scale.
• The Delta Regional Authority committed $250,000 to provide grants to 14 new schools in the DRA service area to
demonstrate the JAG Model, with matching funds coming from schools, workforce boards, and assorted local funding
sources.
• Either first time or increased state appropriations were secured to support and grow JAG Affiliate programs in
Arkansas, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, Ohio, and South Dakota.
• JAG was launched in 25 schools in Kansas for the first time as JAG-Kansas under the leadership of Governor Sam
Brownback. JAG-Kansas is one of JAG’s largest and most successful launches in its history!
Beth Shiroishi, AT&T Foundation
Lakeitria Luter, J.C. Penney
Chairman Chris Masingill, Delta Regional Authority
Job Partnerships
“Jobs” is both the first name and the organizing principle of the work of Jobs for America’s Graduates on behalf
of the young people it serves. It is the implied promise of JAG that if students master the JAG Employability
Competencies and graduate, JAG will do its utmost to help assure employment in jobs that offer critically
important entry-level and career advancement opportunities with or without a postsecondary education.
In a time of the highest unemployment rate among young people in history, JAG entered into several promising
partnerships focused on boosting employment in 2012-2013 including:
• Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Company is the first company that guaranteed an interview to any JAG graduate
who applies for an ADM job. This is not a guarantee of an offer, but all JAG graduates will be granted an interview.
• Regions Bank continued its financial support of JAG programs and also launched a mentoring partnership with Jobs
for Alabama Graduates and Jobs for Mississippi Graduates.
• The AT&T Aspire Mentoring Academy launched a partnership in 15 JAG State Affiliates to provide mentoring
opportunities to JAG students. JAG students in select programs tour AT&T facilities and, in turn, AT&T employees
visited JAG classrooms to discuss the importance of developing employability skills.
• J.C. Penney provided its first grant to JAG at the $100,000 level, with $50,000 going towards JAG Core Funding and
$25,000 each going to the JAG National Thought Leader Event and the JAG National Leadership Awards. In addition,
J.C. Penney invited JAG to participate in their Emerging Talent Program by connecting JAG Specialists to local J.C.
Penney Store Affiliates. At least eight JAG students have been hired by J.C. Penney because of this partnership.
24
JAG Investors
JAG Core INVESTORS
JAG Thought Leader Investors
Trustees–$25,000 plus
Ally Financial Inc.: $25,000
American Staffing Associations: $17,000
Arizona Public Service Company (APS): $5,000
Archer Daniels Midland: $200,000
AT&T: $200,000
Corinthian Colleges: $100,000
Delta Regional Authority: $350,000
Ford Motor Company: $7,500
GE Foundation: $50,000
Heart Sing Foundation: $1,000
J.C. Penney: $50,000
Shell Oil Company: $10,000
United Health Group: $25,000
Verizon: $50,000
Western Union: $75,000
Apollo Group
Archer Daniels Midland
AT&T
J.C. Penney
Microsoft Corporation
Verizon Communications
Senior Associates–$15,000 plus
Shell Oil Company
Sponsors–$10,000 plus
HCA- Hospital Corporation of America
McDonalds
PhRMA
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
Strategic Partnerships LLC
JAG Leadership Awards Investors
Trustees–$25,000 plus
Donors–$5,000 plus
American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE)
Educational Testing Service (ETS)
Lumina Foundation
Toys “R” Us
Apollo Group
Archer Daniels Midland
AT&T
IBM
J.C. Penney
JPMorgan Chase
Microsoft Corporation
Shell Oil Company
Verizon Communications
Western Union
Donors–$2,500 plus
Lumina Foundation
In-Kind Investors
JetBlue­—access to complimentary tickets
Kuder Inc.—access to Kuder Navigator career assessment
MAXIMUS—access tax-credit eligibility of grads
Sponsors–$10,000 plus
Adriane & Darryl Brown
Arizona Public Service Company (APS)
GE Foundation
HCA- Hospital Corporation of America
King & Spaulding
McDonalds
PhRMA
Tom & Jeri Tippett Foundation
Associates–$5,000 plus
Agcareers.com
Educational Testing Service (ETS)
Toys “R” Us
Donors–$2,500 plus
Michael E. Hogrefe
Inner Circle Club
The Inner Circle Club of Jobs for America’s Graduates was formed
to engage individuals who have shown a particularly high level of
appreciation for the extraordinary success that JAG has on young
people, against so many odds. JAG is seeking individuals who are able
and willing to pledge $5,000 per year for three consecutive years.
Charter Members
Lee Alcott
Danitra Barnett
Adrianne and Darryl Brown
J.C. Boggs
Larry Caruso
Mike D’Ambrose
Jim Duffy
Sharon Robinson
Ken and Nora Smith
Thomas and Jeri Tippett
25
7th Annual Thought Leader Event
October 8, 2013, Washington, D.C.
The National Thought Leader Event was conducted on October 8 in Washington under the leadership of Governor Jack Markell, Chairman of
the Board of Jobs for America’s Graduates. The focus of the event was on policy and programmatic solutions given the disastrous level of youth
unemployment in this country that has persisted for the past few years.
The event was organized around a series of panels and roundtables intended to develop specific recommendations to address the youth
unemployment issue for consideration by the nation’s Governors, Congress, Administration, and private sector leaders. Individual meetings will
be organized with targeted individuals and groups such as the National Governors Association Winter Meeting in February 2014.
Over 100 seasoned leaders from public
and private sectors were in attendance
and participated in the recommendation
development process through roundtables
and panel interactions. The recommendations
are proceeding through a formal review
process prior to submission and presentation
by Governors Markell and Brian Sandoval,
Vice Chair of the JAG Board of Directors, and
others to the targeted audiences.
From a private sector perspective,
employment solutions for youth was hosted
by Tom Tauke and presented by: Stacey
Stewart, U.S. President, United Way Worldwide;
and Beth Shiroishi, President of the AT&T
Foundation.
The event was co-hosted by leaders in
organizations concerned with youth, including:
Robert Carr, Senior VP, Membership, Marketing
and External Affairs, Society for Human Resource
Management; Antonio Tijerino, President, The
Hispanic Heritage Foundation; Chanelle Hardy,
Senior Vice President for Policy and Executive
Director of the National Urban League Policy
Institute; and, Neil Horikoshi, President, The Asian
& Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund.
Roundtable discussions were conducted
and recommendations shared with 100 of
the nation’s leading and most seasoned
experts on education and employment
issues related to high-risk youth.
26
From a state perspective, employment solutions
for youth was hosted by Governor Markell
and presented by: Christine Quinn, Director
of Workforce Development Agency, State of
Michigan; Scott Sanders, Commissioner of
Department of Workforce Development, State
of Indiana; and Frank Woodbeck, Director of
the Department of Employment & Training
Rehabilitation, State of Nevada.
2013
Leadership Awards Events
Washington, D.C. • November 20-21, 2013
November 20-21, was the largest attendance and the most dynamic and inspiring Leadership Awards
Event in JAG’s thirty-three year history. Over 800 JAG students, Specialists, alumni, state leaders, and
government and corporate leaders gathered to witness this once a year spectacular event hosted by
Governor Jack Markell, JAG Board Chairman.
The events began the evening of November 20 with a
Special Recognition Reception in the historic Kennedy
Caucus Room. The room where Senator John Kennedy
announced his candidacy for the Presidency and where
the Watergate and Teapot Dome scandal hearings were
held, among many other historic events, was secured
by JAG’s longtime supporter, Senator Tom Carper of
Delaware. The Reception, featuring Senator Caper,
attracted the largest number of Board members ever to
attend this event.
Leadership Awards Luncheon
Perry Washington from JAG-Mississippi captivated the luncheon
attendees with his inspirational description of his experience as a
JAG student. He shared, “It is through JAG that he or she will say I
shall, when everything around them says that it is impossible for you
to make it!”
The young people of JAG-South Carolina from Colleton County High
School performed for the second year in a row with their new song
“Keep Looking.”
800+
The number of JAG students, Specialists, alumni, state leaders, and government
and corporate leaders who attended the Leadership Awards Events.
27
2013
National Leadership Awards Recipients
The National Leadership Award Recipients were submitted by JAG State Organizations to recognize local and state
leaders who have demonstrated a high level of commitment and involvement in the support of JAG Model programs. The
following award recipients were recognized at the 2013 Special Recognition Reception andthe 2013 Leadership Awards
Luncheon. Appreciation and recognition was also given to students who spoke at the Reception and Luncheon.
Government Leader of the Year Award
The Honorable
Phil Bryant
Governor of Mississippi
The Honorable
Mike Pence
Governor of Indiana
National Above and Beyond Award
Corporate Leader of the Year Award
General Electric
Accepted by Athena Kaviris
Global Human Resources Manager
National Educational Leadership Award
Barbara Span
Dee Vanderhoef
Chair, Iowa Workforce Development
Board of Directors, Iowa JAG, Inc.
Government Leader Award
The Honorable John McMahon
Delaware Secretary of Labor
Jobs for Delaware Graduates
28
Western Union
Chair, JAG-DC
The Honorable Melody Schopp
Secretary of Education, State of South Dakota
The Professional for All Seasons Award
Graciela Garcia Candia
President & CEO, Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates
2013
National Leadership Awards Recipients
National Workforce Development
Leadership Award
Michael Johnson
South Carolina State Workforce Investment Board
CEO Cox Industries
State of South Carolina
National Network Leadership Award
National Youth Investor Award
Western Union
Accepted by Patrick Gaston
President, Western Union Foundation
National Partnership for Youth Award
Delta Regional Authority
The Honorable William L. “Bill” Walker
State Director
Arkansas Department of Career Education
State of Arkansas
Accepted by Chris Masingill
Co-Chairman, DRA
JAG Student Speakers
National Catapult Award
Perry Washington
Courtney Perry
JAG-Mississippi
JAG-New Hampshire
Eric Brown
Ann Major
AT&T
Accepted by Beth Shiroishi
Vice President, Sustainability & Philanthropy at AT&T
JAG-Delaware
JAG-Louisiana
29
17th National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA)
A Once in a Lifetime Experience!
More than 644 JAG delegates attended the 17th Annual National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA) at the Crystal Gateway Marriott
in Arlington, Virginia. Twenty-nine (29) states were represented at the NSLA that attracted the largest number of states and delegates to
three-days of leadership development, teaming, problem-solving, recognition, democratic values, and touring our nation’s capital. On
Wednesday morning at 11:00 am, the 650 delegates registered and loaded on fourteen (14) buses for a 30-minute ride to the Washington
Hilton to attend the 2013 JAG National Leadership Awards Luncheon with more than 825 guests in attendance. Immediately following
the luncheon, the 473 students and 177 chaperones loaded the buses and returned to the Marriott to begin the National Student
Leadership Academy. Eighty-seven (87) student delegates competed in one of the three national events: Employability Skills, Poster
Event, and Public Speaking. The competitors were judged by JAG partners and the winners announced at the luncheon on Saturday,
November 23.
NSLA delegates were loaded on buses for an unforgettable experience in Arlington National Cemetery at the Tomb of the Unknowns. The
public wreath laying ceremony was a way to connect 650 JAG delegates with those hallowed grounds that befitted the sacrifice of all who
had served our nation with dignity and honor and rest there in quiet repose. The delegates walked past the graves of John F. Kennedy
and his eternal flame and the thousands of men and women who demonstrated incomparable commitment to serve their country.
30
17th National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA)
NSLA Factoids
650} Total number of delegates
473} Total students attending
177} Total chaperones
29}
Total states sponsoring delegates
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Indiana,
Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri,
Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio,
Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia,
Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia
10}
Leadership Group Facilitator Volunteers
31
Extemporaneous Poster Winners
1st Place—Georgia Culberson, Georgia
2nd Place—Sarah Lyn Jones, Indiana
3rd Place—Brittany Graves, Indiana
(L-R) Ron Robinson (DE), Elizabeth Harris (DE), Veronica
Jones (DE), Cindy Kicinski (IN), Cathy Dennis (TN), Maria
Dahn (MI), Mark Thomas (OH), Wendy Paez (AZ), Nidia
Lopez (KS) and Jason Moore (AZ).
Employability Skills Winners
1st Place—Sierra Garza, Montana
2nd Place—Ashley Coots, Tennessee
3rd Place—Shelby Rhodes, Arkansas
Public Speaking Winners
1st Place—Benjamin White, Indiana
2nd Place—Abigail Dronen, Montana
3rd Place—Scott Sullivan, Delaware
31
30th Annual
National Training Seminar
Nashville, TN • July 10-12, 2013
Marquee Sponsor—Corinthian Colleges, Inc.
The 30th Annual JAG National Training Seminar was held July 10-12 in Nashville at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and
Convention Center, This year’s NTS was the largest ever, with nearly 420 delegates, speakers, presenters and supporters in
attendance at the annual professional development event. Also in attendance were members of the JAG National Board of
Directors, the most that attended NTS (i.e., Carolyn Warner, Larry Caruso, John Steele, Janet Parker, China Gorman, and Ken
Smith). Janet Parker and China Gorman conducted best practices workshops during NTS that were among the highest rated
workshops conducted. John Steele, HCA Senior Vice President, received JAG’s Special Recognition Award for his leadership,
service, generosity and commitment to JAG and Jobs for Tennessee Graduates.
Opening Awards Session
Best Practices Workshops
The Opening Session was both motivational and inspirational. Our
appreciation for those participating in this year’s NTS. Carolyn Warner
and John Steele provided thought-provoking addresses during the
Opening Session on behalf of the Board of Directors. Susan Jennings
from the University of Phoenix surprised Barbara Spence, Washington
State Specialist, as well as the entire audience, with a full graduate
school scholarship to the University of Phoenix. Recent JAGTennessee graduate, Tori Davis, passionately reminded the audience
of Specialists that they were not only JAG teachers and coordinators,
but so much more than that – “life teachers and life coordinators.”
NTS provided sixty (60) intensive 90-minute best practices workshops,
and included the launch of new techniques, content, and systems
support to enhance the impact and value of the JAG Model to the
young people served. A special thanks to all workshop presenters
who were well-received by network delegates, including but not
limited to:
New State Charter
JAG-Kansas received its charter as the newest state organization to
join the JAG National Network and brought all of the employed staff
that launched JAG programs in the 25 schools to Pre-NTS and NTS to
be trained and receive the JAG experience!
• Lakeitira Luter, Talent Manager & Emerging Talent, J.C. Penney
• Charlene White, Senior Manager, Gap, Inc. for Community
Colleges
• Lindsey Miller, Consultant for the GE Foundation, Lindsey
Miller & Associates
• Dr. Julie Ray, National JAG Trainer
• China Gorman, Chief Executive Officer of the CMG Group and
Secretary of the JAG Board of Directors
• Janet Parker, SPHR, GPHR, Executive Vice President Corporate
Human Resources, Regions Financial
• Pamela Lipp and Anthony Glover, JPMorgan Chase.
JAG-Kansas delegates receive charter
University of Phoenix announced two full
scholarships to two JAG staff members at the 2013
National Training Seminar-Dianna Harrier (AZ)
and Barbara (Bobi) Spence (WA). Three additional
scholarships were provided later in the year.
Ken Smith and John Steele
32
30th Annual
National Training Seminar
Dinner and Awards Session
Nine (9) states received JAG’s highest recognition – the JAG “5 of 5” National Performance Outcomes Award.” The states include: Arizona,
Arkansas, Louisiana, Maine, Montana, New Hampshire, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia. One hundred and eighty-three (183) JAG Specialists
were recognized for meeting or exceeding JAG’s five national performance measures of the JAG Model. One hundred and twenty-three (123) JAG
Specialists were recognized as 2013 Outstanding JAG Specialists for the quality of services delivered to the young people served in their
programs. These JAG Specialists received $24,000 in cash awards, which were provided by donations by JAG Board members and Strategic
Partnerships.
China Gorman, Chief Executive
Officer, Great Place to Work®, and
the Treasurer of the JAG Board
gave a riveting presentation on
social media. She opened her
presentation with getting all of the
delegates to their feet and had
them participate in China’s first
Flash-Mob and the first ever FlashJAG!
The Marque Sponsor of the 30th
Annual National Training Seminar
was Corinthian Colleges, Inc. Paul
DeGuisti was in attendance and
accepted the Marquee Sponsor
Award on behalf of Corinthian
Colleges. Also, the Honorable Bill
Walker, Director of the Arkansas
Department of Career Education was
recognized for his years of service
and dedication to Jobs for Arkansas
Graduates.
Ken Smith and Paul DeGuisti
Ken Smith and The Honorable Bill Walker
A JAG Song Premier of “Keep
Looking” performed by the Colleton
High School JAG students, whose
Specialist is Cyrus Birch, was played
for the delegation. As usual the
Colleton High School group did not
disappoint, the audience was
instantly enchanted by the song.
VIP Reception
Marketplace Exhibits
The reception was attended by
state and national leaders and
partners, provided the right venue
to celebrate the accomplishments
of the 2012-2013 program year and
prepared delegates for a memorable
Awards Dinner.
Louisiana-JAG won the First
Place Exhibit prize because of
their informative, attractive,
and “spicy” exhibit. A special
thanks to JAG-Tennessee for
investing the time in preparing
their wonderful exhibit as well.
Louisiana-JAG exhibit
33
30th Annual
National Training Seminar
Closing Session
During the Closing Session the Chairman of the Delta Regional Authority, Chris Masingill, explained the reason he is such an ardent JAG
advocate….”the extraordinary impact JAG has had in the Delta Region.” He concluded his remarks with the announcement that, despite
the sequester, budget cuts, and multiple competing demands, the Delta Regional Authority will make a new investment of $350,000 for
2013-2014 in JAG. The grant will provide:
• Incentive grants to establish JAG programs in 12 new schools.
• Sustaining grants for two current DRA/JAG schools in Missouri.
• $50,000 to support the work of the national organization to carry out the activities related to the grant.
As Chairman Masingill closed his remarks, he asked Kaitlin Siddall, JAG-Tennessee Alumus
from Creekwood High School, to return to the stage because he wanted to present her with
his “Challenge Coin”. The Chairman was touched by Kaitlin’s story that she shared before
he was introduced. He explained to Kaitlin and those present the significance of a challenge
coin particularly in the military. Since Kaitlin plans on entering the Marine Corps after
college, the Chairman wanted to present her with his Challenge Coin that stands for “Honor,
Respect and Partnerships.” He was most appreciative that Kaitlin was willing to accept his
generous offer and appreciation for her commitment to her country through military service.
Pre-NTS Professional Development Courses, July 8-10, 2013
Over 240 managers and Specialists enrolled in one of eight (8) JAG National University courses that began on Monday, July 8, and concluded
with a Recognition Brunch on Wednesday, July 10, in time for the Opening Awards Session of the 30th National Training Seminar. The professors
conducting the courses were JAG national trainers who possess considerable expertise and experience in implementing JAG Model programs
that achieve high performance outcomes.
New Specialist Training
New Specialist Training
Advanced Specialist Training
Management Development Institute I
34
Management Development Institute II
New Specialist Training
Middle School Specialists
Fundraising and Grant Development
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
2013 Smith Scholars
The Kenneth M. Smith Scholarship Program has resulted in the awarding of
fifty-four (54) scholarships in the amount of $64,000 since 2009. Those receiving
the scholarships are referred to as Smith Scholars. The JAG Board of Directors
established the program as a fitting tribute to Kenneth M. Smith, the only
President of Jobs for America’s Graduates since the organization’s inception in 1980.
Scholarships were funded originally through the generosity of JAG Board members and staff
and continue to be the major funding source. The JAG Board is most appreciative of significant
donations by the Western Union Foundation and the Lillian Goldman Trust that have allowed
scholarships to be increased to as much as $2,000. Given the economic situation of JAG graduates,
the Kenneth M. Smith Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 are of significant value to JAG
graduates.
$2,000 Scholarship Recipients
H 1. Kirstyn Arko-Christman
Creek Wood High School, Charlotte, TN
Career Association: Secretary
Delegate: 2012 National Student Leadership Academy
College Acceptance: Austin Peay State University
Career Goal: Nurse Practitioner
JAG Specialist: Elizabeth Littleton
Honorary Staff Member of the 107th Tennessee General Assembly for
Representative David A. Shepard
“One day, through my work as a Nurse Practitioner, I will save a life.
Whether my role in saving that life is a small one or in large part, a life
will be saved because I went to college. I will be the first person in my
household to go to college. With a proper education, I can choose a
career that I love and will be happy in while being able to provide for my
future family.”
H 2. Alexis Browning
McCormick High School, McCormick, SC
College Acceptance: University of South Carolina
Career Goal: Sociology
JAG Specialist: LaTonya Leverette
Served as President of the JAG class for three years
Served as a peer mentor for four years
Completed 48 college credit hours from Piedmont Technical College.
Employer: Hardee’s of McCormick (cashier)
“Imagine a young girl, who doesn’t have much materially but is rich
in qualities that will take her far. She dreams that one day she will be
successful and never again live the life she grew up living. She sees her
single parent mother struggling and hopes one day she could change
that. With her determination, ambition, and drive she sets out to work
her hardest to get where she wants to be in life. This young girl is me.”
H 3. Corey Buckley
Kenneth M. Smith
Smith Scholars’
National Profile
GPA Average:
• GPA High:
• GPA Low:
3.27
4.00
2.50
Postsecondary5
Paris Gibson Education Center, Great
• 2-Year:
2
Falls, MT
• 4-Year:
12
College Acceptance: Montana State
University-Northern
• Not Available: 1
Career Goal: Diesel Technology and
Small Business Management
JAG Specialist: Yenta Jaques
Employer: Valley Country Store, Inc.
Representative at Graduation Matters Montana Retunda Day at
the State Capitol; told 150 state legislators, school staff and other
students how he struggled during the first three years of high
school, but he was able to overcome those challenges and is now a
4.0 student who intends to major in diesel technology and minor in
small business management at Montana State University.
“This scholarship would help me significantly reach my goal by helping
pay for my postsecondary education. I am a man of my word and I
guarantee if you award me this scholarship the investment you make in
me will be one you will not regret.”
H 4. Dit Dit
Des Moines North High School, Des Moines, IA
College Acceptance: Des Moines Area Community College
Career Goal: EMT-Paramedic
JAG Specialist: Julie Charikov
“I am a refugee from Burma and came to the U.S. in 2009. My family
left our country because of war; it was not safe to stay there. In Burma
when a child turns 15 years old, they must join the army or be killed.
I was in the army when I was nine years old fighting for my country. I
know firsthand how terrible war can be. I am glad to be in the U.S. where
children aren’t expected to fight for their country. I did not attend school
in Burma; I did not attend school until I came to the U.S. at 15 years old; I
did not know how to spell my name. I could not number my paper from
1 to 3. I did not know the difference between capital letters and lower
case letters. It was very frustrating at first. Now in high school, five years
later, I am earning very good grades.”
35
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
2013 Smith Scholars
H 5. Da’Meisha L. Fleming
H 8. Clifford Gabriel O’Connor
Anderson High School, Anderson, IN
Career Association: President
College Acceptance: Indiana University-Purdue University,
Indianapolis
Career Goal: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
JAG Specialist: Tonya Miller
Employer: YMCA—Site Director at an elementary school and a camp
counselor for the summer camp program
Wagner Community High School, Wagner, SD
Career Association: Secretary and Vice President of Leadership
Development
Delegate: 2011 National Student Leadership Academy
College Plans: University of South Dakota
Career Plan: Earth Science and Spanish
JAG Specialist: Renee Van Der Werff
Employer: Buche Foods, Wagner, SD
Rotary Exchange Scholar in Argentina in 2012-2013
“As a child, I did not always have access to the best educational
resources. Many times, my parents worked more than one job to make
ends meet. After watching bills pile up and witnessing hard times, I
became more determined to accomplish my goal and continue on with
school. My parents were advocates for me receiving a good education.
Night and day, I would hear the voice of my mother telling me, “Do your
homework, Meiaha, do your homework.” Mom was only teaching me
how to go from good to better.”
H 6. Chazney Gates
Northwest High School, Indianapolis, IN
Career Association: President
College Plans: Ball State University
Career Goal: Director/Screenwriter
JAG Specialist: Jessica Kleffman
Employer: McDonald’s
“Imagine growing up in a single parent household. Then imagine waking
up to open the front door that holds two police officers that are waiting
to ask you to identify your mother’s lifeless body. I didn’t have a chance
to imagine it because I lived it. At the age of six, my mother was taken
from me. I went on to live with my grandparents. Being the only child left
me with nothing to do but watch a lot of TV, play with my dolls, and sit in
a corner to write. It didn’t bother me because the fact of the matter was
watching other people’s stories on TV, creating story lines with my dolls,
and creating an escape in my head was way better than my reality. My
reality was a dreadful nightmare.”
“This scholarship is important to me because I love JAG, and without
JAG, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Before JAG, I never thought of
college, and yes, it is safe to say I would not even have graduated from
high school. JAG made me realize that not only do I have what it takes
to receive my high school diploma but also that I have what it takes to
succeed at the postsecondary level. JAG shaped me into what I am now
today, and I am forever in its debt. That is a message I want to share with
others. As a Smith Scholar, JAG turned me into a successful young man
with a future. No matter where I go or what I become, I will always have
high regard for JAG and encourage other students to become part of
JAG.”
H 9. Keymo Walker
Calhoun County High School, St. Matthews, SC
Career Association: President
College Acceptance: Winthrop University
Career Goal: Counselor/Social Worker for Domestic Violence
JAG Specialist: Geraldine Sackiel
“I started off very shy, quite and kept to myself all the time. All that
changed my junior year; I began to get elected for offices, became state
delegate and started speaking in all of the major programs. That has
changed me for a lifetime. As a child I was always bullied and I think that
influenced my discreetness, but now, it is a whole different story. I am
truly grateful for my JAG Specialist and everyone else who believed in me
from the very beginning.”
H 7. Natasha Lewis
H 10. Alexander Zane Zephier III
Port Gibson High School, Port Gibson, MS
Career Association: President
College Acceptance: University of Mississippi
Career Goal: Clinical Pharmacist
JAG Specialist: Ella Watts
Employer: Community Action Agency, Inc., Summer Academic Tutor
Wagner Community High School, Wagner, SD
College Plans: University of South Dakota
Career Goal: Criminal Justice and Political Science
JAG Specialist: Renee Van Der Werff
“During my fifth grade year, my grandmother was diagnosed with
breast cancer. I remember her suffering and often having to travel for
treatment. She seemed to always be in pain. My mom worked in Jackson,
so my grandmother took care of us until mom made it home. Her cancer
progressed rapidly and she passed away during spring break. I always
think about how much I owed my grandmother for her wisdom, sacrifice
and unconditional love. My grandmother will not get the opportunity
to see us (Natasha and her twin sister) all grown up, attend college, or
accept our first job.”
36
“Attending college is a rare and scarce objective for the Native American
culture I originate from especially within my own family. I believe it has
been due to the destruction that drugs and alcohol have on many lives
of Native Americans. My own family has been vastly affected by drugs
and alcohol. My mother is a drug addict and abandoned me for that
life. My father is an alcoholic and has never played a pivotal role in my
life. I want to make a change, build a path, and lead people away from
a life of despair. I have a mindset and determination and I will not allow
anything to stop me from achieving my goals throughout life. I want to
combat evil that leads innocent people astray. I will be pursuing a career
in law enforcement for a federal agency.”
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
2013 Smith Scholars
Smith Scholars--$1,000 Scholarship Recipients
H 11. David Lee King, Jr.
Westside Leadership Academy, Gary, IN
Leadership: First African American State President of the Indiana
Association of Student Councils
College Plans: Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis
Career Goal: Political Science and Education—Lawyer and Public
Service
JAG Specialist: Margaret Hayes
“My love for giving back and reaching back to my hometown and home
state are deep and strong; and, I believe ultimately that to make a
difference and to make my home (Gary, Indiana) a better place, it must
begin with me. My ultimate dream is to become President of the United
States of America. I believe that I was placed on this earth to not just be a
leader, but to make a difference.”
H 12. Savannah Taylor
Lafayette Jefferson High School, Lafayette, IN
Career Association: President
College Acceptance: Purdue University
Career Goal: Elementary Teacher
JAG Specialist: Laura Morehead
“Because you have had a bad past should not limit you to what you do in
the future. For me, going to college is the most important thing I can do.
I want to be an elementary school teacher and inspire the lives of many.
Winning this competition will motivate me. To me, JAG is not only a class,
but it is the key to success. It has taught me so much about life and what
it is really like. The knowledge I have learned in my two years in JAG will
stay with me forever.”
H 13. Oreleana Bland
Delaware State University, Dover, DE
College Acceptance: Delaware State University—Honors Program
Career Goal: Accountant
JAG Specialist: Desiree Moore
Employer: McDonald’s
“Money is tight for my family because my mother is a single parent
taking care of three children and a grandchild. Subsequently, having a
prominent career is vital to my ability to eventually financially assist my
family. That is why I am so grateful and determined to keep myself on
the right path. After almost an entire year at Delaware State University,
I am on the right road to achieving my goal to be a globally competitive
accountant.”
H 14. Marlene Borjas
Perry High School, Perry, IA
College Plans: Marshalltown Community College
Career Goal: Early Childhood Education/Pre-School Teacher
JAG Specialist: Tina Kenney
“I was born in El Salvador and life wasn’t easy for us. My father would
work all day in order to pay bills and put food on the table for my mother
and me. He would work ten hours a day and only get paid five dollars
a day. I never got to see my father and when I did he was helping my
grandfather on the farm. My parents decided to move our family to the
U.S. when I was four years old…..My parents have saved every penny
possible that they could towards my college fund. They have worked
holidays and weekends just to earn a little more money to put aside in
hopes that I could afford it. To help my family, I started working three
jobs as well to help save up. Unfortunately, my mother lost her job and
has been looking for another for quite some time now but with no luck.
My father has to pay for all of our bills and groceries. My parents can’t
afford to put money aside for college anymore. It hurts knowing that my
dreams could be shut down due to financial issues.”
H 15. Karlee Simac
Helena High School, Helena, MT
Career Association: Vice President of Social
College Plans: Helena College
Career Goal: Registered Nurse
JAG Specialist: Lisa Parker
Employer: Nightingale Home Health (CAN) and Aspen Gardens
Assisted Living
“Every since my sophomore year, I have been overcoming a difficult goal
which most students don’t have to. I am a teen mom of a two year-old
daughter. My life has completely changed but I do not regret it and I will
not let being a parent take away my career goal. I have had to make
changes in my high school career by taking a couple of online classes
but I refused to drop out or get my GED. I was forced to not give up after
I tragically lost my dad in a car accident. His death was right before the
New Year began and the second semester was starting so I was losing
hope that I wasn’t going to finish my senior year. I know my dad would
not want me to give up when I have come so far in life. I have overcome
two obstacles that most students my age will not have to face and it has
made me strive to be better.”
“To me, JAG is not only a class, but it is the key to success. It has taught me so much about life and
what it is really like. The knowledge I have learned in my two years in JAG will stay with me forever.” ­
— Savannah Taylor
37
JAG State Organizations
Public and private organizations sign a national affiliation
agreement with Jobs for America’s Graduates for the purpose
of delivering JAG Model services through a network of local
programs. Seventy percent (70%) of the JAG State Organizations
operate as a non-profit corporation and are led by a public-private
board of directors. Thirty percent (30%) of JAG State Organizations
are sponsored by state or local agencies, i.e. Department of
Education, Department of Career Education, Educational Service
Center, Department of Labor, Workforce Investment Board, Office
of the Superintendent of Instruction, etc.
The thirty-three (33) JAG State Organizations conduct one or more
of the six program applications of the JAG Model, including:
u Middle School Program (Grades 6-8)
u Alternative Education Program (Grades 6-12)
u Multi-Year Program (Grades 9-12)
u Senior Program (Grade 12)
u Out-of-School Program (dropouts)
u Early College Success Program (Postsecondary enrollees)
Jobs for Alabama’s Graduates
3152 Gordon Persons Building
PO Box 302101
Montgomery, AL 302101
Contact: Mandy Nichols
Phone: 334.353.1545
Fax: 334.353.8861
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.alsde.edu.html
www.alcareertech.org
Charter Year: 1996
Program Applications: 24
Senior 2
Multi-Year 22
Specialists: 23
Students Served: 1,450
Class of 2012-2013
833
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 617
2012-2013 Budget: $795,000
38
JAG provides start-up and on-going technical assistance to JAG
State Organizations and local programs to ensure the successful
implementation of JAG Model programs. The basic package of
technical assistance includes the following categories of services:
u Launch Services and On-site Assistance
u Resource Development and Fundraising
u Training and Staff Development Services
u JAG Model Publications—handbooks, videos, PowerPoint
presentations, annual report, newsletter, research reports,
e-learning courses, fact sheets, PSAs, YouTube videos, etc.
u Electronic National Data Management System (e-NDMS)
u National Leadership Development
JAG conducts accreditation reviews including monitoring of the
e-NDMS database for each state and on-site reviews. The purpose
of the accreditation reviews is to determine the extent to which
the state organization and local programs have fully implemented
the program applications of the JAG Model. The full range of
services is mobilized to assist State Organizations to receive
standard accreditation by the national organization.
Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates, Inc.
2501 West Dunlap, Suite 200
Phoenix, AZ 85021
Contact: Graciela Garcia Candia
Phone: 602.216.9507
Fax: 602.216.9508
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jagaz.org
Charter Year: 1980
Program Applications:
28
Senior 1
Multi-Year 10
Alternative 5
WIA Programs 2
Middle School 10
Specialists: 24
Students Served: 1,016
Class of 2012-2013 883
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 133
2012-2013 Budget: $956,889
Jobs for Arkansas Graduates
#3 Capitol Mall, Room 402
Little Rock, AR 72201
Contact: Marylene Tate
Phone: 501.682.1535
Fax: 501.682.1805
Email:
[email protected]
Website: http://dwe.arkansas.gov
Charter Year:
1996
Program Applications:
82
Senior 19
Multi-Year 31
Alternative
30
Middle School
1
Early College
1
Specialists:
77
Students Served: 2,336
Class of 2012-2013 1,162
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 1,174
2012-2013 Budget: $5,515,000
JAG-California (Inc.)
17701 San Pasqual Valley Road
Escondido, CA 92025
Contact: Dan Radojevic
Phone: 760.233.4028
Email: [email protected]
Charter Year: 2008
Program Application: 1
Senior
1
Specialists: 1
Students Served: 50
Class of 2012-2013
25
Class of 2012 (Follow-up)
25
2012-2013 Budget: $500,000
Jobs for Delaware Graduates, Inc.
381 West North Street
Dover, DE 19904
Contact: Susanna Lee, Ed.D.
Phone: 302.734.9341
Fax: 302.734.4912
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jobsdegrads.org
Charter Year:
1979
Program Applications: 35
Multi-Year 25
Middle School
9
Out-of-School
1
Specialists: 40
Students Served: 3,285
Class of 2012-2013 2,870
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 415
2012-2013 Budget: $3,805,605
Jobs for Florida’s Graduates, Inc.
306 S. Ocean Shore Blvd.
Flagler Beach, FL 32136
Contact: Heather Beaven
Phone: 386.439.5730
Fax:
386.439.5731
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.flgraduates.org
Charter Year: 1989
Program Applications:
5
Senior
1
Middle School
4
Specialists:
5
Students Served: 1,000
Class of 2012-2013 1000
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 0
2012-2013 Budget: $500,000
Jobs for Georgia’s Graduates
Georgia Department of Labor
148 Andrew Young International Blvd., NE
Sussex Place, Suite 650
Atlanta, GA 30303
Contact: Nedra Wakefield
Phone: 404. 232.3520
Fax: 404.232.3720
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.dol.state.ga.us
Charter Year: 1987
Program Applications:
33
Senior 13
Multi-Year 20
Specialists:
28
Students Served: 2,275
Class of 2012-2013 1,250
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 1,005
2012-2013 Budget: $2,147,934
JAG-Indiana
Indiana Department of Workforce
Development
10 N. Senate Avenue, Room SE304
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Contact: Leslie Crist
Phone: 317.233.4010
Fax: 317.233.6081
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.dwd.in.gov
Charter Year: 2006
Program Applications: 71
Multi-Year 50
Out-of-School 12
Alternative
9
Specialists: 70
Students Served: 3,029
Class of 2012-2013 1,940
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 1,089
2012-2013 Budget: $6,170,000
Iowa-Jobs for America’s Graduates, Inc.
(iJAG)
Grimes State Office Building, 3rd Floor
400 E. 14th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
Contact: Laurie C. Phelan
Phone: 515.242.5611
Fax: 515.242.5618
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ijag.org
Charter Year: 1999
Program Application: 31
Multi-Year 24
Alternative
5
Middle School 1
Early College Success 1
Specialists: 31
Students Served: 1,632
Class of 2012-2013 1,230
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 402
2012-2013 Budget: $1,994,600
Jobs for Kansas Graduates, Inc.
915 SW Harrison, 5th Floor
Topeka, KS 66612
Contact: Matthew Fearing
Phone: 785.296.4187
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jagkansas.org
Charter Year: 2013
Program Applications: NA
Students Served: Class of 2012-2013 NA
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) NA
2012-2013 Budget: NA
*Launched in 2013-2014
JAG
39
Jobs for Kentucky’s Graduates
548 Silicon Drive, Suite 101
Southlake, TX 76092
Contact: Larry Caruso
Phone: 972.691.4486
Email:[email protected]
Website: www.jag.org
Charter Year: 1993
Program Applications:
5
Multi-Year
4
Alternative
1
Specialists:
5
Students Served: 155
Class of 2012-2013 155
Louisiana Jobs for America’s Graduates
Louisiana Department of Education
1201 N. Third Street, Suite 4-272
Baton Rouge, LA 70804
Contact: Dianna Keller
Phone: 225.219.0368
Fax: 225.349.0291
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.louisianaschools.net
Charter Year:
1995
Program Applications: 85
Multi-Year
56
Out-of-School
5
Middle School 24
Specialists:
85
Students Served: 5,149
Class of 2011-2012 3,930
Class of 2011 (Follow-up) 1,219
2012-2013 Budget: $4,750,000
Jobs for Maine’s Graduates, Inc.
45 Commerce Drive, Suite 9
Augusta, ME 04330
Contact: Craig Larrabee
Phone: 207.620.7180
Fax: 207.620.7185
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.jmg.org
Charter Year: 1988
Program Applications:
71
Senior 2
Multi-Year 43
Homeless 8
Middle School 18
Specialists: 63
Students Served: 4,592
Class of 2012-2013 3,810
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 782
2012-2013 Budget: $6,987,579
Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates
499 West Main Street
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Contact: Kristin Harrington
Phone: 269.927.1064 x1149
Fax: 269.927.1399
Email: [email protected]
Charter Year: 2008
Program Application:
15
Multi-Year
12
Alternative
1
Out-of-School 1
Middle School 1
Specialists:
12
Students Served: 400
Class of 2012-2013 341
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 59
2012-2013 Budget: $755,761
JAG
40
Jobs for Mississippi Graduates, Inc.
6055 Ridgewood Road, Suite A
Jackson, MS 39211
Contact: Ramona Seabron-Williams
Phone: 601.978.1711
Fax: 601.678.3232
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.jmgms.org
Charter Year:
1990
Program Applications: 43
Multi-Year
39
Middle School 4
Specialists: 45
Students Served: 1,796
Class of 2012-2013 1,172
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 624
2012-2013 Budget: $3,060,000
Jobs for Missouri Graduates
Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis
3710 Grandel Square
St. Louis, MO 63108
Contact: Everett Stuckey
Phone: 314.578.2728
Fax: 314.679.3501
Email: [email protected]
Website: ulstl.org
Charter Year: 2005
Program Applications: 3
Multi-Year 3
Specialists: 3
Students Served: 105
Class of 2012-2013 48
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 57
2012-2013 Budget: $110,000
Jobs for Montana’s Graduates
1327 Lockey, P.O. Box 1728
Helena, MT 59624
Contact: Erica Swanson
Phone: 406.444.0978
Email:
[email protected]
Website:
http://jsd.dli.state.mt.us/service/jmg.asp
Charter Year:
1990
Program Applications:
50
Senior 6
Multi-Year 26
Out-of-School/Dropout Recovery1
Alternative Education
4
Middle 11
Specialists: 48
Students Served: 1,632
Class of 2012-13 989
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 650
2012-2013 Budget: $564,449
Jobs for New Hampshire’s Graduates, Inc.
175 Ammon Drive, Suite 208
Manchester, NH 03103
Contact: Katie Dichard
Phone: 603.647.2300
Fax: 603.668.1627
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.nh-jag.org
Charter Year:
1987
Program Applications: 12
Multi-Year
9
Out-of-School
1
Middle School
2
Specialists: 12
Students Served: 468
Class of 2012-2013 398
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 70
2012-2013 Budget: $1,067,606
Jobs for New Jersey Graduates
New Jersey Department of Education
100 Riverview Plaza
P.O. Box 500
Trenton, NJ 08625-0500
Contact: Sandra Strothers
Phone: 609.292.6874
Email: [email protected]
Charter Year: 2012
Program Applications: 2
Multi-Year 1
Senior
1
Specialists:
2
Students Served: 42
Class of 2012-2013
42
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 0
2012-2013 Budget: $370,809
Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates, Inc.
2800 E. St. Louis
Las Vegas, NV 89104
Contact: Rene Cantu Jr., Ph.D. Phone: 702.812.4184
Email:[email protected]
Website:www.jagnv.org
Charter Year: 2012
Program Applications:
11
Senior
5
Multi-Year 5
Alternative
1
Specialists: 7
Students Served: 197
Class of 2012-2013
197
Class of 2011 (Follow-up)
0
2012-2013 Budget: $1,800,000
JAG-New Mexico
3908 Calle Pino NE
Albuquerque, NM 87111
Contact: Kay Provolt
Phone: 505.239.9270
Email:
[email protected]
Charter Year:
2003
Program Applications:
5
Multi-Year
4
Alternative
1
Specialists:
5
Students Served:
273
Class of 2012-2013 217
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 56
2012-2013 Budget:
$263,660
Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates, Inc.
55 East Cuyahoga Falls Avenue
Akron, OH 44310
Contact: Chris Canova
Phone: 330.374.9445
Fax: 330.374.9448
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.jobstop.org/JOG
Charter Year: 1986
Program Applications:
63
Senior
9
Multi-Year 38
Alternative
4
Out-of-School
12
Specialists: 61
Students Served: 2,101
Class of 2012-2013 1,162
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 939
2012-2013 Budget: $3,708,820
JAG
41
JAG-South Carolina
South Carolina Department of
Employment and Workforce
1550 Gadsden Street
P.O. Box 1406
Columbia, SC 29202
Contact: Elaine Midkiff
Phone: 803.737.0214
Fax: 803.737.2119
Email:
[email protected]
Website:www.dew.sc.gov
Charter Year:
2005
Program Applications
25
Multi-Year 24
Middle School 1
Specialists: 24
Students Served: 1,438
Class of 2012-13 1,135
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 303
2012-2013 Budget: $1,749,669
JAG-South Dakota
800 Governors Drive
Pierre, SD 57501-2294
Contact: Dr. Margo Hienert
Phone: 605.773.3783
Fax:
605.773.6139
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.doe.sd.gov
Charter Year: 2009
Program Applications: 8
Multi-Year: 4
Middle School: 3
Out-of-School 1
Specialists: 5
Students Served:
119
Class of 2012-2013
117
Class of 2012 (Follow-up)
2
2012-2013 Budget: $275,000
Jobs for Tennessee’s Graduates
Six South 14th Street
Nashville, TN 37206
Contact: John Dwyer
Phone:615.289.1703
Email:
[email protected]
Charter Year: 1981
Program Applications: 36
Senior 36
Specialists: 34
Students Served: 2,053
Class of 2012-2013
838
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 1,215
2012-2013 Budget: $378,750
Jobs for Virgin Islands Graduates, Inc.
2203 Church Street
Christiansted, VI 00820
Contact: Fernando Webster
Phone: 340.626.3434
Email: [email protected]
Charter Year:
2009
Program Applications:
5
Senior
1
Multi-Year 4
Specialists: 4
Students Served: 226
Class of 2012-2013 181
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 45
2012-2013 Budget: $243,850
Jobs for Virginia Graduates, Inc.
VCU-Center for Public Policy
P.O. Box 843061
923 W. Franklin Street
Richmond, VA 23284-3061
Contact: R. Barry Glenn
Phone: 804.513.1931
Fax: 804.562.9976
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Website: www.jobsforvagrads.org
Charter Year: 1981
Program Applications:
25
Multi-Year
24
Middle School
1
Specialists:
25
Students Served: 1,438
Class of 2012-2013 1,135
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 303
2012-2013 Budget: $1,749,669
Jobs for Washington Graduates, Inc.
Old Capitol Building
P.O. Box 47200
Olympia, WA 98504-7200
Contact: Kathleen Lopp
Phone: 360.725.6256
Email: [email protected]
Charter Year: 2010
Program Applications: 43
Senior 2
Multi-Year 7
Alternative 27
Out-of-School 3
Middle School
4
Specialists: 43
Students Served: 1,126
Class of 2012-2013 1,069
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 48
2012-2013 Budget: $793,249
JAG Grads: College and Career Ready
42
Jobs for West Virginia’s Graduates, Inc.
PO Box 635
Barboursville, WV 25504-0635
Contact: W. Brent Sturm
Phone: 304.667.8278
Email:[email protected]
Charter Year: 1997
Program Applications:
2
Multi-Year 2
Specialists: 1
Students Served: 153
Class of 2012-2013 120
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 33
2012-2013 Budget: $95,500
Jobs for Wisconsin GraduatesMilwaukee
2338 North 27th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53210
Contact: Joan Ward
Phone: 414.270.7556
Fax: 414.225.2375
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.milwaukeewib.org
Charter Year: 1998
Program Application: 3
Multi-Year
2
Out-of-School
1
Specialists: 3
Students Served: 236
Class of 2012-2013 116
Class of 2012 (Follow-up) 120
2012-2013 Budget: $213,482
Jobs for Wisconsin’s Graduates—
Balance of State
Forward Service Corporation
1402 Pankratz Street, Suite 101
Madison, WI 53704
Contact: Sarah Jo Dahlstrom
Phone: 715.299.9417
Fax: 920.787.5938
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fsc-corp.org
Charter Year: 2009
Program Applications: 5
Senior 2
Multi-Year 1
Alternative 1
Out-of-School 1
Specialists: 5
Students Served: 192
Class of 2012-2013: 70
Class of 2012 (Follow-up): 122
2012-2013 Budget: $580,000
995,000
JAG has delivered consistent, compelling results – helping nearly
995,000 middle school, high school and out-of-school students
to stay in school through graduation (or completion of a GED),
pursue a postsecondary education and/or secure quality entry-level
employment that leads to career advancement opportunities.
43
JAG Grads: College and Career Ready
JAG
National Headquarters
1729 King Street, Suite 100
Alexandria, VA 22314-2720
Tel 703.684.9479
Fax 703.684.9489
[email protected]
National Center for
Evidence-Based Practices
548 Silicon Drive, Suite 101
Southlake, TX 76092
Tel 972.691.4486
Fax 972.874.0063
www.jag.org