Investing in Arizona’s Future: Expand JAG to More Schools and Communities

At Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates (JAG), we are committed to increasing graduation rates, preparing students for Arizona’s workforce, and strengthening communities. With a 99% graduation rate and 96% positive post-graduation outcomes, JAG is a proven solution to Arizona’s education and workforce challenges.

However, too many students across Arizona do not have access to JAG programming—and state investment is critical to expanding opportunities to more schools and communities.

 

The Need: Arizona’s Education & Workforce Challenges

Arizona’s students face significant barriers to success:

  • Low Graduation Rates: Arizona’s high school graduation rate is 77%, below the national average.
  • Chronic Absenteeism: More than 36% of Arizona students are chronically absent, putting them at higher risk of dropping out.
  • Workforce Gaps: Arizona’s industries struggle to find skilled, job-ready workers to fill positions in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, IT, and skilled trades.

JAG directly addresses these issues by keeping students engaged in school, equipping them with career-ready skills, and connecting them with real employment opportunities.

 

Workforce Employment
SEE OUR IMPACT ON ARIZONA SCHOOLS

JAG Legislative Day: Shaping Tomorrow's Leaders Today

Legislative Day is a cornerstone event in JAG's mission to empower Arizona's youth. This annual gathering at the Arizona State Capitol provides an immersive experience in state government and the legislative process, aligning perfectly with our students' career aspirations and civic engagement goals.

'Faces of JAG' Legislative Day

Annual Event

Location: Arizona State Capitol and Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza

Empowering Future Leaders

Legislative Day is designed to:

  • Foster dialogue between JAG students and lawmakers
  • Provide hands-on experience in the legislative process
  • Inspire careers in public service and civic leadership
  • Develop critical thinking and advocacy skills
LEARN MORE ABOUT LEGISLATIVE DAY

JAG Arizona: By the Numbers

JAG’s Proven Success in Arizona

JAG outperforms the state average in every key metric:

  • 99% Graduation Rate: JAG students graduate at significantly higher rates than their peers.
  • 56% Postsecondary Enrollment: More JAG graduates continue their education compared to the statewide average of 46%.
  • 80% Employment Rate: JAG students secure jobs at rates 20% higher than the national youth employment average.
  • 83% of Employed JAG Graduates Work Full-Time, contributing to Arizona’s workforce and economy.

JAG is a proven investment in education, workforce development, and economic stability—but state funding is needed to expand our reach.

HEAR FROM OUR EDUCATORS

A Critical Investment: Expanding JAG Across Arizona

To meet the growing demand for JAG programs, we are requesting a $3 million state investment to:

Expand from 30 to 40 JAG programs statewide
Serve 2,000 students annually in high schools, middle schools, and JAG Works community-based programs
Cost-effectively support students at just $1,500 per participant—a small investment with life-changing impact

This funding will allow JAG to provide career-readiness training, leadership development, and workforce connections to thousands of students—ensuring Arizona’s businesses have a strong, skilled, and prepared workforce for the future.

How Legislators Can Support JAG’s Expansion

Your leadership can help ensure more students have access to JAG’s life-changing programs. Legislators who support education, workforce development, and economic growth play a critical role in securing state investment for JAG’s expansion.

Ways You Can Help:
   ✔ Champion JAG in the Arizona Legislature – Advocate for state investment to expand JAG’s reach.
   ✔ Meet with JAG Students & Alumni – Hear directly from those who have benefited from JAG programs.
   ✔ Visit a JAG Program in Action – See firsthand how JAG transforms students’ lives.
  ✔ Connect JAG with Workforce & Business Leaders – Help grow our employer network and job opportunities.

By supporting JAG, you are investing in Arizona’s students, workforce, and economic future.

JAG Students Learn about Careers and Graduate High School Prepared
Join Us in Expanding JAG’s Impact

JAG is ready to grow, but we need your support to make it happen. Let’s work together to expand JAG programs, improve student outcomes, and strengthen Arizona’s workforce.

  • Phone: (602) 216-9503
  • Email: info@jagaz.org

Together, we can build a brighter future for Arizona's youth and our state.

Empowering Today’s Leaders for Tomorrow’s Workforce
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