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February 18, 2026

Jackson, Mich. – The Jackson Area Career Center is celebrating Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month by opening its doors to students, families and community members during its annual Open House on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Eighth- through 11th-grade students and their families are invited to explore nearly two dozen career and technical education programs designed to prepare students for high-demand, high-wage and high-skill careers. The Open House provides an opportunity to tour classrooms and labs, meet instructors, and see firsthand how students gain real-world experience while still in high school.

From engineering and robotics to visual communications, healthcare, skilled trades, public safety and more, Career Center students don’t just learn about careers — they experience them. Students work with industry-grade equipment, collaborate on projects, earn industry-recognized certifications, and in many programs, gain work-based learning experience with local employers. Many students also earn articulated college credit, giving them a head start on postsecondary education.

“Our annual Open House is the best way for families to truly understand what the Career Center offers,” said Dan Draper, principal of the Jackson Area Career Center. “Students are building technical skills, earning credentials, developing leadership abilities and gaining confidence that prepares them for both college and the workforce. We encourage any student even considering enrollment to come explore.”

High school counselors from area districts will be on site to assist incoming juniors and seniors with enrollment questions and scheduling. Because students are required to tour a program before enrolling — and many programs maintain waitlists — attending Open House is especially important for 10th graders who are preparing to make decisions about their junior year.

In addition to high school programming, the Open House will also highlight the Career Center’s Adult Enrichment programs, which provide opportunities for young adults and adult learners to gain new skills, pursue training in high-demand fields and benefit from hands-on instruction led by experienced industry professionals. Whether beginning a new career path or building upon existing skills, the Career Center offers options for learners at every stage of life.

The Jackson Area Career Center is located at 6800 Browns Lake Road in Jackson. For more information about programs or the upcoming Open House, visit www.jacc-mi.net or follow the Jackson Area Career Center on Facebook.

August 13, 2025

Jackson, Mich. – The Jackson Area Career Center (JACC) is launching new initiatives this fall to expand and strengthen its Adult Education & Enrichment program. These efforts include new leadership, the launch of a community survey to guide future classes, an updated schedule of evening healthcare programs, and a part-time job opening for a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) instructor.

“We want our offerings to reflect Jackson County’s voice,” said Adult Education & Enrichment Coordinator Vincent D’Ettorre. “Tell us what you want to learn—whether that’s photography, home repair, budgeting, creative arts, or wellness. Your input will guide what we build next.” D’Ettorre joins the Career Center team from Michigan Works! Southeast, where he built strong connections between education and local employers. 

Community Survey: Help Shape the Next Workshops
JACC is seeking ideas for short, affordable enrichment and hobby workshops that bring the community together to learn, create, and grow. Potential topics include: 

• Creative arts & crafts (drawing, painting, photography)
• Life skills (budgeting, home DIY, basic auto care)
• Language & culture (travel prep, world languages)
• Health & wellness (nutrition, yoga, mindfulness)
• Technology basics (email, spreadsheets, smartphone tips)

Residents, employers, and community groups are invited to submit ideas anytime at: https://forms.gle/z4Cmz3GhaXUpfjLm7.

Evening Healthcare Programs Begin September 8
Starting Monday, September 8, 2025, JACC will offer evening healthcare training programs at its campus, including:

• Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
• Medical Assistant
• Medical Office Assistant
• Phlebotomy
• Medical Billing & Coding

Details and registration are available at: https://www.jacc-mi.net/adult-career-education/adult-career-education

Now Hiring: Part-Time CNA Instructor
To support program expansion, JACC is hiring a part-time CNA Instructor. Candidates with clinical experience and a passion for teaching are encouraged to apply at: https://jcisd.workbrightats.com/jobs/

About Jackson Area Career Center Adult Education & Enrichment
The Jackson Area Career Center’s Adult Education & Enrichment programs provide practical, community-responsive learning that helps adults gain skills, earn credentials, and explore new interests. Through strong partnerships and flexible scheduling, JACC connects learners with pathways to employment, advancement, and lifelong enrichment.

 

April 25, 2025

Jackson, Mich. -- The Golden Knight Battalion celebrated its 21st Annual Military Ball in grand fashion on Friday, April 25. More than 150 Cadets, students, and guests filled the beautifully decorated Gene Davis Dining Hall for an unforgettable evening of recognition, tradition, and celebration.

Honoring Excellence
The evening recognized over 25 Cadets with awards, medals, and plaques for their outstanding performance this year. Among the top honors, five Cadets received the Superior Cadet Award, presented to those who consistently exceed expectations in leadership and service.

Royal Court Recognition
This year’s Royal Court included:

• King: I. Krieger

• Queen: E. Corts

• Prince: C. Cure

• Princess: V. Howell

Guest of Honor
The keynote address was delivered by Command Sergeant Major Jason Schwartz from the U.S. Army’s 3rd Recruiting Brigade, inspiring Cadets with his message of leadership and service.

A Year of Accomplishments
2024–25 was a landmark year for the Golden Knights:

• Over 800 hours of community service completed

• Competed in 7 competitions across Michigan and Kentucky

• 1st Place Overall at the JACC State Raider Competition

• 21st Place at Raider Nationals in Fort Knox, KY

• Spring competitions included strong finishes at Flint (4th & 5th) and Southgate (2nd)

Community Impact
Golden Knights contributed time and energy to causes like the Grand River Environmental Action Team (GREAT), Thompkins Center, and the Salvation Army’s Thanksgiving and Christmas drives.

A Night to Remember
From formal wear to festive dancing, this milestone event was a highlight of the year for JACC’s JROTC students. It brought together tradition, camaraderie, and well-earned celebration—one that Golden Knight Cadets won’t soon forget.

Behind the Scenes Excellence

• The decorations were created by Cadets themselves

• Corsages and boutonnieres were designed by JACC Ag Science students

• Invitations and programs came from JACC Visual Communications students

• Photography was captured by Mr. Greg DeMyers

• Dinner was provided by the wonderful team at Gene Davis & Sons

• Music and dancing were courtesy of Pro DJs