Opening Doors: How Jobs for America’s Graduates is Empowering our Virtual Students 

At Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina (HVASC), students are finding new pathways to confidence, career readiness, and community through Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) – the state’s only virtual JAG program. 

Leading this work is Ms. Taylor, a veteran educator with more than 25 years of experience supporting high-needs students. She joined HVASC in July and serves students from her home community in South Carolina’s Pee Dee region. 

“Education is my background. This is year 25 for me,” Ms. Taylor says. “I’ve always worked with students who might need extra support, and I’ve always wanted to be a resource to families. That’s what brought me to Heron.” 

A Program Designed for Students Who Need It Most 

JAG is a national, needs-based program created to help students overcome barriers that may stand in the way of their goals. While any student at HVASC can join, the program is built to support those who may face challenges such as learning gaps, language barriers, discipline issues, or limited support at home. 

“We might be aware of a student’s situation or the obstacles they’re trying to overcome,” Ms. Taylor explains. “When we see those barriers, that’s when JAG becomes part of the conversation. But the student’s voice matters – we want them to choose to be part of this.” 

Because HVASC is the only virtual JAG school in the state, they shape a model that fits the needs of online learners. This means building curriculum, experiences, and support systems that work in a flexible, virtual environment. 

JAG at Heron 

JAG at HVASC blends asynchronous coursework with live, interactive sessions that focus on career readiness, communication, leadership, and real-world scenarios. 

Students participate in three different levels of the program depending on their grade level and experience: 

• JAG 1 – Foundations of Career Readiness 

Students focus on communication, self-development, and workplace scenarios. A lot of lessons are project-based – students complete assignments from the lens of actually being employed – like being a summer camp counselor or navigating conflicts with a new roommate. 

• JAG 2 – Hands-On Career Preparation 

Students build résumés, complete job and college applications, write personal statements,  and develop portfolios. 

“This level is very hands-on,” Ms. Taylor explains. “We help students produce real materials they’ll use for work readiness.” 

• JAG 3 – Connecting With Partners 

The highest level focuses on building relationships with employers and nonprofit partners. 

Participating students spend more time having real-world conversations with JAG partners and exploring actual job opportunities.  

Students also take part in specialized sessions like virtual college tours, career interest  inventories, and Q&As with industry professionals, including recent sessions featuring  graduates who chose trade school pathways. 

Building Purpose: Student-Led Service Projects 

Service learning is a core part of JAG, and HVASC students complete at least five service hours each year. The initiative is student-driven, and Ms. Taylor says this leadership is one of the most powerful parts of the program. 

“We now have officers – a president, president-elect, secretary, state representative, and soon vice presidents for career development, leadership development, and community service,” she explains.  

Recent and upcoming service activities include: 

• Letters to Veterans in November 
• A domestic violence awareness PSA in October 
• Statewide blanket drive in January 
• Monthly projects planned by students for spring 

“Once we have our full executive team in place, it will be completely student-run,” Ms. Taylor says. “They have such passion and incredible ideas.” 

Looking Ahead 

With new officers stepping into leadership roles next semester, more service projects on the horizon, and growing student participation across grade levels, Ms. Taylor and the entire JAG program is excited about what’s coming next. 

“JAG opens doors for students – especially those who may not have access to these opportunities anywhere else,” she says. “My hope is that every student who comes through this program realizes they have what it takes to succeed.” 

If you’re interested in learning more about Heron Virtual Academy of South Carolina, please visit hvasc.k12.com. 

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