JAG Program Services
The JAG Model consists of a comprehensive set of services designed to keep young people engaged in their academics through graduation and improves their success rates in education and career.
The JAG Model
Established in 1980, Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) provides elective classes for credit taught by Specialists in high schools, middle schools, and after-school programs. Students acquire vital job skills, get hands-on experience, and receive a year of post-grad support, nurturing students through as they transition into career and post-secondary education. More than 40 years of data prove JAG works. Today, our students are achieving the best outcomes in JAG’s history.
Why is the JAG Advantage™ so unique?
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Trauma-informed care merges with education, employability skills and experience to empower students. The result is a clear advantage: JAG students not only overcome adversity, they thrive – in school, work, and life.
Core Competencies
JAG-NM focuses on a comprehensive set of core competencies that are crucial for student success. These core competencies are grouped into 6 clusters:
Career Development
Identify occupational interests, aptitudes, and abilities and develop a future path for the selected occupation.
Basic Skills
Comprehend verbal and written communication, communicate effectively in professional and non-professional settings, and perform mathematical calculations.
Personal Skills
Make decisions based on values and goals, recognize self-worth, demonstrate the ability to assume responsibility for actions and decisions, and understand the types of maturity.
Job Attainment
Construct resumes and cover letters, seek recommendation letters, fill-out applications, and gain an appropriate understanding of the interview process.
Leadership & Self Development
Familiarization with team-based environments, demonstrate team leadership, effectively present in front of groups, and experience commitment to an organization.
Job Survival
Identify employer expectations, demonstrate time management and professional appearance, and practice effective workplace human relations.
Graduation Rate Comparison
JAG-NM Students
National-All Students
New Mexico-All Students
New Mexico-Economically Disadvantaged Students
Our Students
With a diverse student demographic profile, JAG-NM is focused on equity.
49%
Hispanic/Latino
48%
Native/Indigenous
27%
Disabled
12%
Non-English speaking
JAG-NM students face an average of 7 barriers upon entry to our program, including:
90%
Free/Reduced Lunch Eligible
48%
Low Academic Performance
52%
Chronically
Absent
JAG Specialists
The JAG specialist has a unique role, which combines the traditional role of teacher, advocate, caring adult, counselor, coach, mentor, community partner, & National Career Association advisor all into one!
"The magic that happens in a JAG classroom is unique; it is where learning comes to life, where youth open their mind to dream, & plans are made to execute goals"