Western Indiana’s Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) programs were recognized by the State of Indiana recently. A ceremony was held in Indianapolis for Region 7 JAG leaders and specialists who were being recognized for the 2021-2022 school year. Among them was Karl Turk of Cloverdale High School, who placed third in Most Scholarships earned by recent JAG graduates, with a total of $931,400 scholarship dollars. First place was awarded to Diana Lighthizer of Sullivan High School with $1.84 million scholarship dollars.
Turk, along with Kim Snodgrass of Riverton Parke / Parke Heritage, was also honored for five years of service to the JAG program.
Cloverdale, North Putnam, Riverton Parke / Parke Heritage, and Sullivan (part of Region 7) JAG specialists were also recognized for the 5 of 5 Awards, which honors programs that meet or exceed the standard in five key metrics:
- graduation rate
- job placement/military service
- total positive outcomes
- full-time placement (work, military, full-time school)
- total full-time jobs
Region 7 also received the Regional 5 of 5 Award for meeting or exceeding these measures. Region 7 consists of the following high schools: Northview, Riverton Parke, West Vigo, North Putnam, Sullivan, Terre Haute North, Terre Haute South, Cloverdale and Parke Heritage.
“Congratulations to the outstanding JAG programs in Region 7 for their excellent work in preparing students for college, careers and beyond,” said Lisa Lee, executive director, Western Indiana Workforce Development Board. “Region 7’s JAG specialists are among the best in the nation, and their dedication to their students is a leading factor in successfully launching these young people into college, post-secondary education and the workforce. We are proud of, and grateful for, their efforts.”
Jobs for America’s Graduates is a national workforce skills readiness program for high school students. It focuses on the importance of earning a high school diploma and acquiring the soft skills required of employers. Skills which are developed include problem solving, leadership, job seeking, team building, and academic skills; all necessary to complete post-secondary training and success in today’s job market.
More than 135 JAG programs operate in Indiana. In the Wabash Valley, JAG programs are supported by the local school administrations and the Western Indiana Workforce Development Board.
