For the third year in a row, the Jobs for America’s Graduates – South Dakota (JAG-SD) program has been recognized for excellence in achieving the prestigious “6-of-6 Award.”  JAG-SD is part of the national JAG network, which helps students persist through high school graduation and acquire the academic, employability, and technical skills they need to lead successful lives.  The local program that achieved this designation is Lyman High School in Presho.

The national award recognizes the states and programs within the JAG network that exceed benchmarks in six categories deemed crucial to equip students with the skills and support they need to achieve their potential. The six categories are: high school graduation rate, employment rate, full-time employment, total full-time positive outcomes, connectivity rate, and the rate of students furthering their education after high school.

“The JAG program in South Dakota has a history of helping students to overcome barriers to success, and to build a bright future,” said Secretary of Education Joe Graves. “This award tells us that JAG-SD specialists continue to fulfill their mission to the highest level, and that students in the program are in good hands.”

JAG-SD named Bennett County High School JAG specialist Cindy Knecht as the 2025 JAG Specialist of the Year.  “Cindy represents what makes JAG-SD so impactful—outstanding student-centered programming that offers real opportunities for leadership, engagement, and community connection,” said JAG-SD Program Director Beth Schneider.  “She inspires confidence in them while holding them to high standards, and that has translated into her students’ achievements in school and in life.”

As students continue to thrive through JAG-SD’s student-centered approach and strong state-level leadership, the program continues to expand.  The department welcomes Waubay School District as the 13^th district to offer JAG programming, adding to JAG-SD’s reach across the state.  In the 2024–25 school year, JAG-SD served a record 568 students across 12 school districts.

School officials interested in learning more about implementing JAG are encouraged to contact JAG-SD State Director Beth Schneider.

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