JAG California Celebrates Excellence at the 2025 Specialists Summit

JAG California Celebrates Excellence at the 2025 Specialists Summit

Honoring the dedication, innovation, and impact of Specialists across the state

The 2025 JAG California Specialists Summit brought together passionate educators and leaders from across the state to celebrate the remarkable achievements of JAG Specialists who continue to transform the lives of young people through connection, consistency, and care.

About the 2025 JAG California Specialists Summit

The JAG California Specialists Summit was a two-day professional development and recognition event bringing together Specialists, program leaders, and partners from across the state to collaborate, learn, and celebrate excellence in serving youth.

Throughout the summit, participants engaged in dynamic training sessions, interactive workshops, and peer-led presentations focused on strengthening program delivery and enhancing student outcomes. Sessions highlighted best practices in employer engagement, trauma-informed support, project-based learning, and career readiness instruction, while offering hands-on strategies to help Specialists empower students to overcome barriers and achieve long-term success.

The summit also featured:

·       AI Training: Practical demonstrations on how Specialists can use AI responsibly and effectively to streamline tasks, support instruction, enhance student engagement, and improve program efficiency.

·       Level All Training: Comprehensive guidance for Specialists on effectively using the Level All platform, a digital tool supporting career exploration, employability skills, interest assessments, and progress tracking. The training helped Specialists learn how to integrate Level All into classroom instruction, monitor student engagement, and utilize progress-tracking tool to support program goals.

·       Design Thinking Training: A hands-on, student-centered session introducing the Design Thinking process to strengthen problem-solving, support program innovation, and develop meaningful career readiness and project-based learning experiences.

In addition, to professional learning, the summit served as a celebration of impact, honoring the outstanding Specialists whose leadership, innovation, and compassion continue to transform lives across California.

The two days reflected the heart of JAG California: a community of educators dedicated to connection, collaboration, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Recognizing Outstanding Achievements

Each year, the Specialists Summit serves as a platform to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in empowering students to overcome barriers, build employability skills, and prepare for success in school, work, and life. The 2024–2025 award recipients embody the JAG mission and exemplify excellence in program delivery, mentorship, and innovation.

JAG CA Enrollment Excellence Award

Recipient: John Woodcock, JAG Specialist

Charter: Alta Vista Innovation High School

This award celebrates a JAG Specialist who demonstrates exceptional dedication to expanding student access to JAG’s transformative programming. Through strategic outreach and strong community partnerships, John Woodcock has connected more young people to the opportunities and mentorship that define the JAG experience. His commitment to inclusion and access reflects the heart of the JAG California mission ensuring every student has a chance to succeed.

JAG CA Sustained Impact Award

Recipient: Mike Cruz, JAG Specialist

Charter: San Diego Workforce Innovation High School

The Sustained Impact Award honors a Specialist who goes above and beyond to support students even after they have completed the program. Mike Cruz has distinguished himself through consistent follow-up, long-term relationship building, and a genuine commitment to his students’ continued success. His efforts exemplify the enduring impact of JAG’s “once JAG, always JAG” philosophy.

JAG CA Career Readiness Award

Recipient: John Woodcock, JAG Specialist

Charter: Alta Vista Innovation High School

This award recognizes a Specialist who excels in preparing students for the workforce through industry-recognized certifications and real-world learning experiences. John’s dedication to helping students gain practical skills and professional credentials empowers them to enter the workforce with confidence and purpose, ready to succeed in California’s evolving industries.

JAG CA Rising Star Award

Recipient: Carlos Narez, JAG Specialist

Charter: Alta Vista Innovation High School

The Rising Star Award highlights a Specialist who demonstrates significant professional growth, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Carlos Narez has inspired both colleagues and students through his determination, innovative approaches, and genuine care for his participants’ success. His work reflects the resilience and passion that fuel JAG California’s statewide impact.

A Celebration of JAG California Specialists

The Specialists Summit is a moment to pause and recognize the heart of JAG California, our Specialists. Their dedication, resilience, and creativity transform lives every single day. This event stands as a powerful celebration of all JAG CA Specialists, honoring their commitment to uplifting youth, breaking barriers, and shaping brighter futures. This event is not just an acknowledgment of individual excellence, it is a powerful reflection of the incredible impact JAG Specialists make every day in classrooms, communities, and career paths across our state.

As the JAG California network continues to grow, the 2025 Specialists Summit serves as both a celebration and a reminder of what’s possible when educators lead with passion and purpose.

Together, JAG California Specialists are shaping brighter futures — one student at a time.

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