Success Strategies
Below are just a few reasons behind how we’re able to deliver a 97% graduation rate with successful transitions that lead to 90% positive outcomes for youth.
Strategy 1: The JAG Advantage
This national three-pillar strategy is recognized as a model program by the National Dropout Prevention Center.
- Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Work-Based Learning (WBL) is an engaging and interactive way for students to choose topics that interest them and complete related activities that build their skillset. Examples include: financial literacy, employability and soft skills, build-your-own restaurant and volunteerism.
- Trauma-Informed Care includes environmental and emotional methods that help students feel safe, open and relaxed. From non-traditional seating options to warm lighting, daily affirmations and special gestures, this is a key strategy that improves learning, participation and excitement.
- Employer Engagement is the bridge between the classroom and workplace. Students apply their learnings and soft skills to discover, plan and prepare for a career that they’re passionate about.
Strategy 2: 7 Essential Constructs
In cooperation with Iowa’s Area Education Agencies (AEA), we align soft skills development to the 7 Essential Constructs model. Created by Iowa legislatures, AEA continues to be a critical institution that guides youth development.
- Career Readiness
- Character and Self Development
- Communication and Technology
- Critical Thinking and Productivity
- Life Skills
- Self Advocacy
- Conflict Resolution
Strategy 3: JAG Employer Engagement Framework
This connective approach drives Exploration, Exposure and Experience so that every student has an individual development plan (IDP) that ignites immediate and long-term success.
Strategy 4: A Powerhouse of Professionals
Our more than 140 school partners have confidence in our ability to deliver solutions that are outcome-focused and data-driven. But, these feelings are strengthened knowing that each student will be individually guided with passion and care by highly-trained Education Specialists.
Education Specialists are employed by iJAG to work in-step with school administrators to support district priorities. We help alleviate district responsibilities by leading processes related to hiring, managing and evaluation as well as professional development. Here are just a few examples of year-round training and education programs for staff:
- Annual Summer Learning Summit
- Annual Professional Development Day
- Annual JAG training certification
- Regular virtual training events
- Monthly training for iJAG Program Managers
- Mental health training for staff, students and classroom through The Scanlan Center for School Mental Health at the University of Iowa
- JAG National Training Seminar (optional)