All students face challenges, some more overwhelming than others. Common barriers standing in the way of high school graduation include economic factors, academic difficulties and personal or social development issues. Despite these barriers, there is a solution: JAG Nebraska. And while the program is relatively new to our state, it’s already making a major impact.
Studies show JAG students are equipped with skills that help them engage in creating positive connections with peers which leads to increased engagement, attendance and GPA scores. In 2023, JAG Nebraska realized a 99% graduation rate.
Our program is growing faster than ever! Our JAG Specialists are hand-picked for the task at hand. We employ teachers with a knack for creativity and a passion for meeting students exactly where they are. An ideal Specialist is ready to engage their local community and form lasting relationships with students and employers. We help students identify their unique college and career pathways, connect them to employers’ job opportunities, and give them the skills and confidence to be successful on their post-secondary journey!
JAG Nebraska’s mission is to empower young people with the skills and support to succeed in education, employment, and life.
Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) JAG NE Specialists are teachers and educators, advocates for students, and caring adults and mentors. Our Specialists are responsible for guiding our students through project-based learning experiences for mastery of a minimum of 37 competencies in each JAG class. Specialists must successfully implement the JAG Nebraska model with integrity while supporting our students to navigate life and academia successfully, achieve high school graduation early or on time, and have positive outcomes post-graduation. JAG Specialists work closely with school teachers and supervisors to provide support and coordination for students. They must always represent the organization’s values and be well-versed in building relationships with multiple stakeholders simultaneously.
Since 2019, JAG Nebraska has served 2,200 students through 24 programs at 22 schools in 12 school districts – and the numbers only continue to grow as data supporting the success of the program increases. This is good news for the young people in Nebraska who face significant barriers to success.
Our students are achieving success by …
The JAG Advantage model of learning empowers students to overcome their challenges and achieve in school, work and life
JAG Nebraska is aligned with the guiding principles and priorities of the Nebraska Career and Technical Education (CTE) program part of the Nebraska Department of Education. CTEs like JAG help students explore career options, identify interests and develop skills that prepare them for postsecondary education and/or entry-level careers.
At a time when Nebraska employers face significant difficulty attracting enough skilled workers, JAG students are the solution to the problem. They are a diverse and inclusive group of individuals who are ready to use their training and talents in the workplace.
“JAG Nebraska is the gold standard of state partners. JAG’s work with our agencies, business leaders and community members has cultivated the next generation of Nebraska workers. The students they serve are set up for success in the years to come.”
– Nebraska Senator/Former Gov. Pete Ricketts