Jobs for Kentucky's Graduates, or JKG, is an affiliate of JAG (Jobs for America's Graduates) operating in 27 states and the United Kingdom. JKG is a dropout-prevention school-based program for disadvantaged and at-risk youth, with the ultimate goal of attaining a high school diploma and/or postsecondary education or training leading to a career.

In Kentucky, JKG began in 1993-94 and was funded by the JTPA (Job Training Partnership Act) and local boards of education. Beginning in 1999-2000, JKG was funded by state legislative dollars, WIA (Workforce Investment Act) funds, Governor's Discretionary Money, and local school district funds.

Currently, JKG has programs in 48 high schools across the state and serves nearly 2500 at-risk students annually. Using a competency-based curriculum, Career Specialists (all certified teachers) provide daily classroom career instruction and coaching, assistance in job placement, and follow-up services for 12 months after graduation/GED. The key performance outcomes for JKG programs are:

• Completion of requirements for a high school diploma or GED certificate
• Placement in a quality job leading to a career advancement opportunity
• Pursuit of a post-secondary education as a means of enhancing transition into the workforce