For over 40 years nationally, JAG participants have proven that a well-executed model can help those historically held back by discrimination, poverty, and other barriers to achieve equal or greater success in high school graduation, post-secondary education, and employment. As our country faces ongoing racial and social inequities, JAG continues to support people of color, those with disabilities, the economically disadvantaged, and other underserved populations by providing equitable services that help achieve equality in outcomes and opportunities.

As part of our efforts, JAG remains committed to:

Boosting high school graduation rates among underserved communities and populations. Graduation rates have consistently exceeded 90% over JAG’s 40-year history. Now, at 99%, JAG participants achieve far above the 77% average statewide graduation rate. This is especially compelling since JAG serves a lower academically performing percentage of the high school population, yet achieves far greater results than the national average.

• Increasing the number of vulnerable youth and young adults who secure jobs.
• Facilitating conversations with young people about racial and social justice issues. Our Coordinators (teachers) provide safe spaces for JAG students to discuss their fears, concerns, hopes, and ideas to drive positive change.
• Enhancing equity content to our programs through Trauma-Informed practices to include workshops, webinars, and other learning modules. Activities include ongoing discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion, brainstorming solutions, and exploring how JAG students can foster change in their communities.
• Helping the most vulnerable youth in Arizona secure meaningful jobs. JAG works with local employers that regularly hire JAG students, who have received intensive development and training support through the JAG program. JAG students are ready for work on day one, equipped with 37 Employability Skills Competencies, including a focus on customer service.