Students begin employment with Jackson Energy Authority
JACKSON, Tenn. – LOOP, the Jackson-Madison County School System’s celebrated trade-based career pathway, has expanded to include one of the nation’s most comprehensive public utilities. Jackson Energy Authority is the latest entity to partner with the district’s Local Options and Opportunities Program (LOOP 3.0). JEA is providing training and employment to JMCSS students this semester.
“JMCSS and JEA have a shared vision of preparing for the future today. This partnership allows us to be better prepared for growth expected in our region and to assist with meeting approaching needs in our telecommunications services,” said JEA President & CEO Monte Cooper.
Students participating in LOOP 3.0 complete academic work two days per week coupled with three days of training and work within JEA’s Telecommunications Division. Students are also able to utilize online/virtual learning to provide the flexibility necessary for this non-traditional schedule.
“Our students are participating in a hands-on overview of the organization in various departments at JEA, so they’re being exposed to a number of careers and marketable skills that they can build. Their long-term options are unlimited if they’re willing to do the work,” said Melissa Spurgeon, Chief of Staff for JMCSS.
Between LOOP 1.0, LOOP 2.0 (West Tennessee Healthcare), and LOOP 3.0 (JEA), a total of 31 JMCSS high school students are participating in career building and job placement opportunities this semester.
“Whether it’s early robotics and STEM opportunities at the elementary school level, or accelerated academic and career opportunities at our middle and high schools, JMCSS continues to provide families with a great return on investment,” Superintendent Dr. Marlon King said. “We’re excited about this latest partnership.”
