From left: Tina Walker, Leslye Ramirez, Deb Hunt, and Claudia Ortega
Seventeen students in iJAG programs at Ottumwa High School and the ACA were installed as officers during a ceremony at city hall on October 5.
iJAG stands for Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates. The program provides comprehensive drop-out prevention and school-to-work transition services for youth. In Ottumwa Schools, programming is provided at both the high school and Accelerated College Academy (ACA). The program continues to follow students up to one year after graduation.
The students were elected by their peers. The 2016-17 officers cover a variety of responsibilities, including service learning, leadership development, career preparation, civic awareness, social awareness, and photography. OHS officers include: Leslye Ramirez, president; Makenna Guyette, Ingrid Frias, Erik Galindo, Clay Richmond, Makenzie Courtney, and Shaydon Probst. Alternates are Latisha Hansen and Saivontre Lundsford. ACA officers include: Claudia Ortega, president; Chelsey Reynolds, Eric Osorio, Karla Ramirez, Jack Vanderhyde, Jr., Damonte Miller, Hailey Drewry, and Giselle Olivares.
Students heard messages from ACA administrator, John Ohlinger and Ottumwa Superintendent Nicole Kooiker. Kooiker used movies to provide examples of motivational life lessons to be learned. Program coordinators are Tina Walker and Deb Hunt.
