How JILG Operates
JILG partners with high schools throughout Illinois that wish to offer the JILG program to their students. As JILG's partners, these high schools commit to establishing a JILG Advisory Committee, which requires the participation of district teachers, guidance counselors, and administration personnel; and to hiring a Career Specialist to teach the curriculum. The vast majority of the time the Career Specialist is chosen from among the current teaching staff at the participating school. The Career Specialist is critical to the success of the JILG program. Working with approximately 35-40 students, the Career Specialist establishes a one-on-one relationship with each student, playing a unique role of teacher, guidance counselor and mentor.
The Career Specialists help students discover their individual talents, help them develop self-confidence and personal skills, and help them seize opportunities to achieve their individual potential. The value and results of this close relationship manifests itself in a more confident young adult who is equipped with the motivation to stay in school and eventually become a productive, contributing member in their community.
Through JILG's President, Michelle Trueblood, and her field operations staff, the individual school programs are closely monitored to ensure that all student and curriculum requirements are in compliance with JILG's model components and that student outcomes are meeting the high level of JILG's expectations and standards.
JILG's Board of Directors provides oversight and policy direction for the organization and the program. (see Board of Directors) JILG has enjoyed a broad range of support for its program and mission from school district administrators, state legislators, local and regional political officials, and the local business communities and their leaders.
JILG is funded by the State of Illinois through a grant provided by the Illinois State Board of Education.