2025 JAG NTS

In this interactive workshop, participants will explore how song lyrics can be a powerful gateway to student engagement, reflection, and creativity. Led by Cearra Jones, Training Specialist with Empowered, this session models how to guide students in analyzing their music choices, connecting those choices to personal experiences, and recognizing how music influences their day-to-day interactions. Educators will walk away with ready-to-use strategies that tap into student interests, build stronger classroom connections, and amplify student voice in ways that are relevant, empowering, and unforgettable.

In this workshop we will look at a new partnership and mentorship program that JAG WI launched this past year. Craftsman With Character is a mentorship program rooted in the manufacturing industry and is easily adapted to all trades. Attendees will learn how this collaboration bridged the gap between the classroom and the skilled trades workforce. This program emphasizes character development, accountability, and career readiness. Participants will gain practical guidance on replicating the partnership model with their state affiliates.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will dive into the Empowered platform to explore how experiential learning, AI technology, and real-world relevance come together to support powerful instruction. Led by the Empowered Training Team, this session will guide educators through how to access and apply our resource library, generate classroom-ready content using our custom AI tool, and design learning experiences that elevate student voice and ownership. Whether you're new to Empowered or ready to level up your practice, this session will leave you equipped and inspired to create engaging, student-centered classrooms.