By Melissa Tyson
Junction City Rotary
James Denton, Career Specialist for JAG-K (Jobs for America’s Graduates – Kansas), recently joined Willie Woods (JAG-K Program Director), Jaden Exantus, and Jae'Lynn Dennard in delivering a presentation to the local Rotary Club. The group spoke about the mission and impact of JAG-K and how the program is helping prepare students for success beyond high school. Also outlined was how there is a full year follow up program for all seniors. Checking in on seniors to make sure that they have jobs, are in college, or just being active in their community.
Denton was joined by students Exantus and Dennard, as they outlined the program’s focus on leadership development, civic and social awareness, service learning, and career preparation. The students discussed several projects they have completed, sharing how JAG-K allows them to take ownership of their learning through a student-led classroom model.
They emphasized that students in the program are encouraged to develop, plan, and lead their own service-learning projects and community presentations—skills that build confidence, responsibility, and real-world experience.
“Our class is designed so we, as students, take the lead,” - Jae'Lynn Dennard.
“We come up with the ideas, we plan the events, and we do the work. It’s preparing us for what’s ahead.” - Jaden Exantus.
Willie Woods, a JAG-K Program Director, outlined the JAG-K transitions program and how they serve students who are in foster programs and how they can team up to help them still be successful by presenting the students with a JAG-K specialist when they move from home to home. He also briefed on the Mike Rowe Credentials and how JAG-K is piloting that program for the 2025-2026 school year.
Rotary Club members expressed appreciation for the engaging and informative presentation, commending the students for their professionalism and passion.