Learning life skills one Jaguar Jump at a time
Jaguars Jumps covers college and career skills to build confidence
By Michelle Sebasco, Guest Writer, and Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Not every lesson is learned in a classroom – something the latest cohort of Jaguar Jumps (JJ) students at Governors State University (GovState) know from experience.
This semester, the JJ cohort, the largest in the program’s history at 24 students, went on a daylong trip to practice their independence, express their creativity, and build bonds. These skills are just some of many that are addressed in the bridge program which guides students with disabilities during the transition from high school to college and career pathways.
Starting at a Pace bus stop, the students learned to navigate public transit to get to their destination, Park Forest’s SouthWorks MakerLab, a partner in the GovState School of Extended Learning (SXL) network.
After diving into the world of 3D printing, where the group were able to create and design their own custom pieces, the JJ students visited Mr. Franklin’s MuzicNet School of Music to meet other student musicians on the autism spectrum. They all banded together to put on their own mini concert.
Trips like these provide the JJ students an opportunity to foster practical skills, engage with technology, and build community, something that left a lasting impression on one of the attendees, Julian Johnson (pictured right).
“In Jaguar Jumps, I made a friend, and learned how to take the train in the city. My Jaguar Jumps friends also have attended my band’s performance,” said Julian.
Julian is one of many mentors for the JJ program, students who have completed the bridge program and are now on their chosen college or career path. Julian, a GovState Accounting major, is a published author, a jazz trombonist, and a member of the Student Advisory Board.
Abbey Scott is in her final year at Trinity in their art therapy program. She’s transformed her experience with cerebral palsy into a mission to serve. Her hands-on leadership in the Heroes and Hopes Garden—a collaborative project between veterans and Jaguar Jumpers—teaches the invaluable lesson of giving back.
Elijah, a future sports anchor, inspires others with his unwavering focus. A Communication major, he hones his craft in GovState’s Digital Media Studio. As a mentor, Elijah’s optimism encourages others to keep pursuing their dreams, no matter how big.
Phil, whose journey began with quiet determination, discovered his purpose in a connection with another student, Mary Kate. His innate ability to understand her dysarthric speech led to him becoming her state-funded personal assistant through IDHS. Today, he balances three jobs with a newfound confidence, proving that profound opportunities can arise from simple acts of kindness.
The fall semester for JJ students wraps on December 3 with their end of the semester party. JJ students will showcase their goals and accomplishments on poster boards. The party runs from 4:30 - 6 p.m. and all are invited to celebrate with them!
Jaguar Jumps is funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). To learn more about the program, click here.
Michelle Sebasco is Program Director of Governors State University's School of Extended Learning.