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- Des Moines, Iowa - June 30, 2025 - Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates (iJAG) is experiencing notable growth and demonstrably positive outcomes, equipping iowa students with the skills...
- What: Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates (iJAG) is a program focused on preparing students for future careers.
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Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) doubles Impact, Prepares students for Future Success
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Des Moines, Iowa - June 30, 2025 – Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) is experiencing notable growth and demonstrably positive outcomes, equipping iowa students with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the workforce. The program has doubled its impact since 2022-23, now serving over 10,200 students across the state. iJAG’s success is built on strong partnerships between businesses and non-profits, demonstrating the power of collaborative community investment.
A Rapidly Expanding Program with proven Results
iJAG’s growth is extraordinary. As of June 30, 2025, the program encompasses 202 programs, reaching 10,215 students. This represents a doubling of impact in just two years. The program’s success isn’t just about reach; it’s about results. Key performance indicators demonstrate a clear return on investment for students, schools, businesses, and funders.
Here’s a breakdown of iJAG’s key achievements:
| Metric | Value (as of 6/30/25) |
|---|---|
| Students Served | 10,215 |
| Communities Served | 82 |
| Iowa Counties Reached | 52% |
| Graduation Rate (iJAG Students) | 98.4% |
| Advancement in Attendance | 38% |
| Business partners | 1,500+ |
| Students Meeting work-Based Learning Requirements | 66.3% of 11th/12th Graders |
The program’s success is fueled by a commitment to staff development, ensuring educators are equipped to meet the diverse needs of their students. iJAG actively cultivates relationships with over 1,500 business partners, providing students with valuable hands-on learning experiences. This focus on practical submission ensures that 66.3% of 11th and 12th-grade students meet the state’s work-based learning requirements.
– victoriasterling
iJAG’s model is notably effective because it directly addresses the skills gap facing many iowa businesses. By fostering strong partnerships between education and industry, the program ensures students are graduating with the competencies employers are seeking. The impressive graduation and attendance rates are a testament to the program’s ability to engage students and provide them with the support they need to succeed. The continued investment in staff development is also crucial, allowing iJAG to adapt to evolving student needs and industry demands. This isn’t simply a feel-good program; it’s a strategic investment in Iowa’s future workforce.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Innovation
iJAG isn’t resting on its laurels. The association has aspiring plans for the next 12-18 months, including:
* Increased Student reach: Projecting to serve over 11,500 students.
* Curriculum Alignment: Expanding program and curriculum alignment with state departments and legislative priorities.
* Program Innovation: piloting online and after-school programming, and enhancing College Success Programs.
* talent Pipeline Development: Continuing to build the talent pipeline for businesses across iowa.
These initiatives demonstrate iJAG’s commitment to continuous improvement and its responsiveness to the evolving needs of the state.The planned expansion of online and after-school programming will broaden access to the program,reaching students who may not be able to participate in customary classroom settings.