Rahway High School JAG Program Earns Two of JAG National's Highest Honors, Reflecting Transformative Student Success

In its second year, the Rahway High School (RHS) Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) program has earned two of JAG National's highest program honors. The awards were presented during the 2026 JAG EDGE National Training Conference in Long Beach, California, where Rahway JAG received the 5 of 5 Non-Senior Award for the second consecutive year and the prestigious 6 of 6 Award.

The 5 of 5 Non-Senior Award recognizes JAG programs that meet JAG National's highest performance standards for current students, reflecting measurable success in helping students overcome barriers, improve school engagement, and prepare for future careers and educational opportunities. The 6 of 6 Award recognizes the success of a program's graduates beyond high school, presented to programs whose alumni achieve outstanding postsecondary outcomes, including graduation, employment, continuing education, and other positive career pathways.

RHS teacher and JAG advisor Leon Bunion said, "Our job is to create opportunities. Our students' job is to take advantage of those opportunities, and they've done exactly that." Bunion also received JAG National's High Performer Award – Employer & Community Impact, recognizing his work in building partnerships that connect students with employers and career exploration opportunities.

Since launching in 2024, the Rahway High School JAG program has provided students with leadership experiences, career readiness opportunities, and authentic connections with employers and community leaders. Over the past two years, Rahway JAG students have earned state and national competitive honors, secured scholarships, led community service initiatives, and developed meaningful relationships with employer partners.

Nicholas Iwarimie, a member of Rahway JAG's Class of 2025, said the program transformed his confidence: "Before joining Rahway JAG, I felt lost. Joining Rahway JAG changed my life. Through the program, I learned to be confident in myself, my ideas, and my everyday decisions."

Yardeline Davenport, parent of a Rahway JAG Class of 2026 graduate, observed her son's growth: "JAG has given my son the confidence to grow into a strong and capable public speaker. Today, he no longer hesitates to step up when an opportunity presents itself." As Rahway JAG prepares to welcome its newest cohort this fall, the program remains committed to empowering students through leadership, career readiness, service, and strong community partnerships.

Produced with AI assistance and reviewed against source records.