Gila Bend High School JAG Wins Program of the Year

Gila Bend High School JAG students volunteer in their community

For the second consecutive year, the Gila Bend High School JAG program has been named Outstanding Chapter - Program of the Year, a prestigious honor that recognizes the program’s commitment to academic achievement, leadership development, and community engagement. This award highlights not only the program’s exceptional student-led initiatives but also the tangible success students have achieved in graduation rates, career readiness, and workforce preparation.

The Gila Bend JAG program has consistently demonstrated its impact by improving student attendance, academic performance, and post-graduation outcomes. In 2024, the program achieved a 100% graduation rate, with 88% of students improving their GPA and 79% increasing their school attendance. Additionally, 75% of graduates secured employment while 58% pursued further education. The sustained excellence of this program reflects JAG’s mission to prepare young people for their future careers.

Marjorie DeRubeis, President and CEO of Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates, emphasized the significance of this recognition and the program’s ongoing success.

"The Gila Bend High School JAG program is an outstanding example of what happens when students are given the support, resources, and opportunities to succeed. Winning Program of the Year two years in a row is no small feat, it is a testament to the commitment of students, educators, and community partners who believe in the power of JAG. These students are proving that, with the right tools and guidance, they can overcome challenges and achieve extraordinary success in school, work, and life."

The program’s success extends beyond the classroom, as students actively participate in career exploration, employer engagement, and community service. Gila Bend JAG students contributed over 2,700 hours of community service, averaging nearly 50 hours per student. Their involvement in local events such as the Gila Bend Farmers Market, Town of Gila Bend Shrimp Festival, American Red Cross Blood Drive, and Veterans Day Commemoration has developed strong partnerships between the school, local businesses, and community organizations.

One of the most significant aspects of the Gila Bend JAG program is its ability to inspire a culture shift within the school and community. Dr. Robert Varner, Superintendent of Gila Bend Unified School District, has witnessed firsthand the transformation in students and their approach to the future.

"When I arrived in 2021, our graduation rate was below the state average, and our students had limited post-secondary opportunities. Now, thanks to JAG, our graduation rate is 100%, and our students are pursuing careers in industries we never thought possible. We have graduates working as diesel engineers, veterinary technicians, and in healthcare and dental offices across the state. JAG has completely shifted the culture of our school and given students a new sense of purpose."

In addition to its student and program awards, Gila Bend JAG has built a reputation for excellence among educators and community leaders. The program’s JAG Specialist was recognized with both the High Performer Award and Rookie of the Year for his dedication to mentoring students, coordinating career-readiness initiatives, and fostering strong relationships between students and employers. This commitment to student success has led to deeper partnerships with organizations such as the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program, which helped establish a recreation center for after-school activities.

The ripple effect of JAG’s influence extends beyond the JAG classroom. Teachers across Gila Bend High School have embraced JAG’s mission, with faculty members stepping up to support students preparing for the annual Career Development Conference (CDC). This year, students earned multiple state and national awards in finance literacy, writing skills, career preparation, and leadership competitions, further demonstrating the depth of talent and ambition within the program.

Beyond awards and accolades, Gila Bend JAG has had a profound impact on the lives of students. Many who enter the program facing challenges; such as credit deficiencies, low confidence, or uncertainty about their future, graduate equipped with leadership skills, career readiness, and a strong support system. Students who were struggling academically recovered missing credits, improved their behavior, and became more engaged in extracurricular activities.

Looking ahead, the Gila Bend JAG program continues to set the standard for student success in Arizona. By delivering a student-led, community-connected approach to learning, JAG ensures that young people not only graduate but also thrive in the workforce, higher education, and beyond. The program’s ability to adapt, grow, and maintain excellence serves as a model for schools across the state seeking to empower their students through meaningful career education and leadership development.

As Gila Bend JAG celebrates another year of record-breaking achievements, it remains clear that the program is not just transforming individual students but an entire community. With a proven track record of success, strong leadership, and unwavering community support, the program continues to elevate student potential and build the future workforce of Arizona.

Is your school looking for a proven program that increases graduation rates, student engagement, and career readiness? Jobs for Arizona’s Graduates (JAG) partners with schools across the state to help students overcome barriers, develop leadership skills, and prepare for their futures.

Join the growing number of Arizona schools seeing real results, like Gila Bend High School’s 100% graduation rate and award-winning success. Email info@jagaz.org or call us at (602) 216-9503.