On April 20, students from Wade Hampton High School gathered in the Midlands for the annual Jobs for America's Graduates-South Carolina
Joined by more than 586 students from across the state, the annual Career Development Conference event provides opportunities for JAG-SC students to hear speakers, discuss career development, compete in academic and life-skills competitions and be recognized in an awards luncheon.
Wade Hampton High School is particularly proud of the strides their JAG-SC students have made this academic year. WHHS JAG placed first for their chapter manual, first in decision making (Erica Jennings), second in the poster competition (Sigourney Coker), and third place in the essay competition (Tatyana Bovain). WHHS JAG placed second in the state overall.
"Over the course of this year, the students have mastered 81 competencies identified by businesses as essential to successful employment", said Angel Connell, WHHS JAG Specialist. "We want to launch them from here ready for more education or ready for employment. Either way they will be prepared to take the next step with confidence and eager to make a positive contribution to the community."
Additionally, the group of 9th-12th graders have participated in the Down Syndrome Buddy Walk, Diabetes Awareness Walk, at the United Ministries Food giveaway , Operation Connect, campus cleanup, and the Bully Prevention Walk.
This year’s theme, "Bridging the Gap," speaks to the organization's goal of helping each student develop the skills they will need to bring people together to address issues that they may face in the future.
JAG is a dropout prevention program focused on academic success and career-readiness skills. JAG-SC is administered by the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. Over the past 12 years of service, the program has assisted more than 10,281 youth and currently serves 901 active high school participants.