Senior Caroline Kirby (pictured left) placed first in the Employability Skills (interviewing) event, where students compete for a simulated job opening by developing a letter of application and a résumé, in addition to participating in a mock interview for the position.

Whitney Mathews, the JAG Specialist at Madison High, said Kirby serves as a role model for other JAG students.

“She leads a fifth grade girls’ mentorship club, and we are so lucky to have her as the president of our career association as well,” Mathews said. “She is beyond a wonderful young lady and shows great commitment for her education, and she serves her school and her community with so much dedication that she has become an inspiration to others.”

JAG’s National Student Leadership Academy was held Dec. 5-7 in Washington D.C. Students participated in leadership training and four competitions—Math Skills, Employability Skills, Project Based Learning, and Public Speaking Skills.

JAG is a state-based, national not-for-profit organization active in 39 states that assists high school students by helping them overcome academic challenges and achieve graduation. JAG Indiana is administered by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

JAG Indiana has grown to be the largest affiliate in the national network, with 137 programs statewide.