Students tell board JAGK program helps boost graduation and job readiness; group pilots competency‑to‑credential badges
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Summary
Jobs for America's Graduates‑Kansas presented student testimonials and program data to the State Board, saying the multi‑year program serves 6,000+ students in 85 schools and reported a 2024 graduation rate of 99% with 90% engaged in jobs, military or education within 12 months.
TOPEKA, Kan. — Bev Mortimer, chief innovation officer for Jobs for America’s Graduates‑Kansas (JAGK), and several student officers addressed the State Board of Education on Nov. 13, describing program outcomes and a new competency‑to‑credential pilot.
Mortimer said JAGK is an elective, multi‑year career‑development program operating in 85 schools across 54 districts and 43 counties, serving more than 6,000 students beginning in sixth grade. She reported the program’s 2024 graduation rate as 99% and that 90% of graduates were engaged in full‑time employment, postsecondary education or military service within 12 months.
Three student officers described how the program improved their confidence, public speaking and workplace readiness. Aaron Foster, a region‑2 vice president from Topeka West High School, said he regained his voice in the classroom: "JAG found me ... I regained my voice by speaking up more." Analicia Aquino and Macy Patterson described competition experience, internships and community service tied to JAGK coursework.
Mortimer also described a pilot to issue verified digital credentials (badges) in competencies such as pathway navigation and financial literacy; staff plan to expand credential areas statewide over time.
Board members praised the students’ presentations and recognized Commissioner Randy Watson with a JAGK education champion award for his long‑standing support. No board action was required on the presentation.