PCS brings JAG Nebraska career program to local students

BY SAMANTHA GOFF

GRANT TRIBUNE-SENTINEL

Perkins County students will have a new opportunity to develop career skills, explore potential professions and prepare for life after graduation through the addition of Jobs for America’s Graduates Nebraska.

Known as JAG Nebraska, the program is a for-credit elective combining project-based learning, mentorship, career exploration and leadership development. Perkins County Schools students in grades seven through 12 will have the opportunity to participate.

“PCS is proud to announce the addition of the JAG Nebraska program to our curriculum,” the district said in its school newsletter over the summer. “JAG empowers students to build essential life and professional skills.”

The program is designed to help students overcome personal, economic or academic challenges while preparing for success after high school. Lessons and activities focus on skills students can use in college, employment, technical training and everyday life.

Robin Quinn has been hired as the district’s JAG career specialist. Quinn is already a familiar face to many local families after working at Hastings Memorial Library in Grant for more than two decades.

As career specialist, Quinn will lead JAG classes and help students build connections with employers and explore educational and career pathways. 

JAG programs may include career presentations, workplace visits, job-shadowing opportunities, apprenticeships and other hands-on experiences.

The district said the program supports its commitment to giving every student opportunities to thrive academically and personally.

PCS Superintendent Ben Jones recently helped represent the district at a JAG Nebraska event at the Nebraska Governor’s Residence. 

Jones was among the speakers at the event, which highlighted JAG’s work to create opportunities for young Nebraskans while strengthening the state’s future workforce.

“We’re proud that Mr. Jones was able to represent PCS and share his perspective on the impact of programs that support students as they prepare for life beyond high school,” the district said via social media.

JAG Nebraska is a program of United Way of the Midlands and operates through a public-private partnership involving school districts, employers, private donors and the state departments of Labor and Health and Human Services.

The program began in Nebraska with three school programs in 2019. It has since grown to 90 programs expected to serve approximately 5,500 students during the 2026-27 school year.

JAG Nebraska reported a 99% graduation rate among participating students last year.

The program’s growth and workforce-development efforts were recognized in a proclamation signed by Gov. Jim Pillen Aug. 27 at the Nebraska State Capitol. The proclamation also highlighted Nebraska’s “Good Life, Great Careers” initiative and the Society for Human Resource Management’s Education-to-Employment Pipeline initiative.

“The JAG organization is having an incredible impact on the circumstances of young people and changing their perspectives,” Pillen said. “This program is a game changer for Nebraska youth.”

JAG Nebraska is also expanding its partnership with the Nebraska Department of Labor to serve as a group apprenticeship sponsor. The effort is intended to help students move from classroom career exploration into real-world employment experiences where they can develop skills and build relationships with employers.

The organization is seeking greater involvement from Nebraska businesses. Employers may assist students by offering career presentations, workplace tours, apprenticeships, job-shadowing opportunities and other experiences.

“At United Way, we know a strong workforce is essential to the long-term strength of our state,” United Way of the Midlands President and CEO Shawna Forsberg said. “JAG Nebraska addresses that need by connecting young people with the skills, experiences and employers that can prepare them for meaningful careers right here in Nebraska.”

Jobs for America’s Graduates was established nationally in 1980. The nonprofit organization serves young people in middle schools, high schools and alternative education programs, helping them graduate, find employment and pursue postsecondary education, certifications or training.

In addition to classroom instruction and leadership development, JAG provides participants with continued support for 12 months after graduation.

More information about the program is available at JAGNebraska.org.