FPS OKs program to increase graduation, employment rates

<p>Olivia Garrett/FULTON SUN</p><p>The Fulton Public Schools Board of Education unanimously voted Wednesday to approve a partnership with Jobs for America’s Graduates-Missouri. </p>

Olivia Garrett/FULTON SUN

The Fulton Public Schools Board of Education unanimously voted Wednesday to approve a partnership with Jobs for America’s Graduates-Missouri.

The Fulton Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously to approve an agreement to introduce the Jobs for America's Graduates program during their Wednesday meeting.

Everything about the JAG-Missouri model is focused on helping at-risk students graduate and find employment. The main component of the program is a class centered on work-based learning experiences.

"The curriculum focuses on job skills, career-readiness skills," FPS Assistant Superintendent Ty Crain said. "We're looking for students that would have barriers that are making it more difficult for them to be successful."

Though the curriculum isn't fully set, Crain expects the class might also help students overcome those barriers to success.

The program measures success in reduced absences, disciplinary actions and suspensions as well as improved grades in school.

One unique part of the program is it will also follow and support students for a year after they graduate high school. The goal is at least 80 percent of participants will be employed in a job leading to a career, in the military or enrolled in post-secondary education.

Callaway Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tamara Tateosian came to the meeting to support the program, which she said she believes will be valuable for the community.

"Workforce development - that is a word that I hear sometimes 10-15 times a day," Tateosian told the school board.

Tateosian first heard about JAG-Missouri from Missouri first lady Teresa Parson at a conference for chamber of commerce executives.

"I was so super excited when I heard about this program because I thought, what a great fit," Tateosian said.

Within a few days, she was contacted by the district about the very same program.

"So it is absolutely a no-brainer for the Chamber of Commerce," she said.

In recent years, the JAG-Missouri program has grown across the state.

The program has existed in Missouri for 30 years, but it has experienced a "rejuvenation" as Gov. Mike Parson has increased his support, Crain said. In 2014, only six Missouri schools participated in the program. Today, more than 50 have signed on.

FPS expects to have the program fully in place for the 2020-21 school year.