South Dakota JAG Leaders Hone Skills at National Academy in D.C.

Steve Jurrens
Dec 5, 2025
2 min read

Five people in matching blue suits pose smiling in front of the U.S. Capitol on a clear day. The setting is calm, with bare trees.

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The five elected South Dakota Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG-SD) state officers recently returned from the National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA), a capstone leadership experience held in Washington, D.C., from December 2-5.

These exceptional student leaders, elected by their peers, represented JAG-SD at the national level. The academy provided immersive learning opportunities designed to strengthen their leadership skills and support their persistence through high school graduation and future career success.

"Through the JAG Career Association, students aren’t just learning about leadership—they’re practicing it every day,” said Beth Schneider, State Director of JAG-SD. “Their growth is inspiring to watch, and the way they support one another reflects the strength of our JAG family.”

During the NSLA, the state officers engaged in experiential learning, real-world applications, and professional networking. Activities included hearing from former presidents of Jobs for America’s Graduates Career Association (JAGCA), visiting the U.S. Capitol, and meeting with congressional representatives to gain a better understanding of the legislative process.

The 2025-26 JAG-SD state officers are:

· Catelyn Fry, State President (Bennett County High School)

· Marlee Wells, State Secretary (Lyman High School)

· Lilly Kracht, State Parliamentarian (Roosevelt High School)

· Briley Oldenkamp, State School Representative A (Lyman High School)

· Mariska Parkhurst-Barahona, State School Representative B (Todd County High School)

JAG-SD is dedicated to empowering students by having them lead projects focused on civic responsibility, academic performance, social interaction, professionalism, and leadership. The program’s core purpose is to help students stay in school, earn a diploma, and gain classroom and work-based learning experiences that lead to quality employment or postsecondary education.