JAG program expands in southeast Indiana
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The Southeast Indiana Workforce Investment Board has expanded the Jobs for America’s Graduates program into three high schools in Decatur County, bringing the total number of schools served by the workforce development not-for-profit’s efforts to 15.
JAG is a national program in which students who face obstacles such as trauma or poverty learn job skills through hands-on experiences and classroom work. JAG specialists teach elective classes for credit to support the student’s transition from graduation to employment, military service or college or trade school.
Greensburg Community High School, North Decatur Jr./Sr. High and South Decatur Jr./Sr. High join 12 other high schools in southeast Indiana served by the Southeast Indiana Workforce Investment Board—constituting the state’s largest JAG program, the board said in a news release.
The expansion was supported in part by Honda, which employs about 3,000 people at its Greensburg manufacturing plant.
“The growth of Indiana’s JAG program ensures opportunities for a new generation of student leaders in Southeast Indiana,” Greensburg Schools Superintendent Tom Hunter said in the release. “We appreciate Honda’s continued commitment to Greensburg and we are excited to see the growth of our JAG students.”
Added Decatur County Community Schools Superintendent Jarrod Burns: “Decatur Community Schools is thrilled to now have JAG at our two junior senior high schools. The skills our students will gain while in JAG will allow them to leave our schools and thrive in our community.”
The expansion also aligns with Gov. Eric Holcomb’s goal to double the amount of JAG programs statewide by the 2024-2025 school year.
The amount of the gift from Honda was not disclosed. Honda did not respond to an email seeking comment.
In the release, a Honda representative said the automaker is proud to support a program that helps prepare students for successful careers.