JAG California Specialists Honored at National Training Seminar 2025

July 31, 2025

JAG California Specialists Honored at National Training Seminar 2025

We are proud to announce that four outstanding JAG California Specialists were nationally recognized at the 2025 Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) National Training Seminar (NTS), held July 14–18 in Louisville, Kentucky. These exceptional individuals received prestigious awards for their leadership,innovation, and unwavering dedication to empowering youth across California.

National Award Recipients from JAG California

  • Jazmin Calderon, Vista Norte
        Outstanding Specialist Award
        This national award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exemplary leadership in delivering the JAG model with innovation, passion, and consistency. Jazmin’s efforts have gone above and beyond in supporting her students’ academic, career, and life success.
  • Zenaida Alcantar, Elev8
        High Performer Specialist Award
        Zenaida’s exceptional results and ability to inspire meaningful change in her students and community earned her this recognition. Her commitment to the mission of JAG is evident in the strong connections and opportunities she fosters for young people.
  • Nancy Esqueda, Assurance Learning Academy
        High Performer Specialist Award
        Nancy was honored for her consistent, high-quality work and measurable outcomes in helping students overcome barriers to success. Her compassionate mentorship and strong rapport with youth exemplify the values of JAG California.
  • Carlos Narez, Alta Vista Innovation High School
        High Performer Specialist Award
        Carlos has made a remarkable impact through his dedication and personalized support for students. His work continues to open doors for young people, encouraging them to achieve success despite significant obstacles.

About the National Training Seminar

The National Training Seminar is JAG’s premier professional developmentevent, bringing together Specialists, administrators, trainers, and employerpartners from across the country. NTS offers valuable opportunities forcollaboration, sharing of best practices, and professional growth to elevatethe impact of JAG programs nationwide.

This year’s seminar highlighted innovative approaches to studentengagement, leadership development, and work readiness, while celebrating theachievements of those leading the way in transforming lives through educationand mentorship.

Celebrating Our Team’s Collective Impact

These national honors reflect not only the outstanding work of Jazmin,Zenaida, Nancy, and Carlos but also the collective dedication of all JAGCalifornia Specialists. Every day, across our state, Specialists are helpingstudents overcome barriers and build brighter futures through connection,consistency, and care.

As we celebrate these incredible achievements, we also express our deepgratitude to every member of the JAG California team for the vital role youplay in our mission.

Together, we are changing lives—one student at a time.

Congratulations again to our award recipients and thank you to the entireJAG CA community for your continued impact and excellence!

 

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JAG California is a state-based non-profit organization dedicated to keeping young people in school, who for a variety of reasons are at-risk for not graduating high school.

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