Press Release

Wednesday, January 8, 2024

JACKSON, TN — Jackson-Madison County Schools (JMCSS) is proud to lead the way in preparing students to meet the evolving needs of our region’s industries. The JMCSS Workforce Development Center exemplifies the district’s commitment to equipping students with the skills and certifications necessary to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

The success of the Mechatronics program is bolstered by the expertise of instructors like Mr. Jeff Replogle, a mechanical engineer and educator at the Workforce Development Center.

“Our program bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application. Students gain practical skills and certifications that make them invaluable to today’s workforce,” Mr. Replogle said.

Madalyn Pearson, a freshman at JCM Early College High, recently became the first JMCSS student to earn an industry certification in Electrical Systems 1 (pictured above). She also achieved certification in Pneumatic Systems 1, placing her on a path toward high-achieving roles in the manufacturing and engineering sectors.

Video below: David Westberry, Assistant Principal at JCM Early College High - and the Tennessee Association of Secondary School Principals Assistant Principal of the Year - visits the JMCSS podcast to discussion opportunities at JCM-ECH and the JMCSS Workforce Development Center.

“Madalyn’s accomplishments reflect the dedication of our students and the high-caliber instruction available at JMCSS. She’s just one example of how we are empowering young minds to achieve great things,” said JCM Early College High principal Dr. Nathan Lewis.

The Mechatronics program is one of several unique class options within our public schools and exemplifies the Workforce Development Center’s mission. Open to all high school students in Madison County, this innovative program provides hands-on training and industry certifications in critical fields such as electrical systems and pneumatic systems. These courses prepare students for lucrative careers as technicians and engineers or for advanced academic pursuits at institutions like the Tennessee College of Applied Technology and West Tennessee’s four-year colleges and universities.

“The Workforce Development Center is a cornerstone of our commitment to preparing students for successful futures. Programs like Mechatronics, nursing, and welding demonstrate our focus on providing students with advanced opportunities to secure strong salaries and bright futures,” Superintendent Dr. Marlon King said, highlighting the district’s vision for regional leadership in workforce development.

Video below: Michael Patrick, now a sophomore at JCM Early College High, joined Mr. Replogle to provide a demonstration of the skills-based lessons he and his classmates complete in the Mechatronics program at JCM Early College High.

As open enrollment season continues, JMCSS encourages families to explore the opportunities available at the Workforce Development Center. For more information on enrolling at the JMCSS Workforce Development Center or to learn about the district’s unique school options, visit www.jmcss.org or www.jmcss.org/letstalk to schedule a tour.

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Your school. Your choice. Open enrollment makes it possible. Check out unique school options like JCM Early College High, Malesus STEM Innovation Center, Community Montessori, and the Academic Academy at Northeast Middle School. Click the image below to apply.

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We’re introducing Let’s Talk, an online customer service solution that provides a convenient way for you to ask questions, request information, or share concerns.

Let’s Talk is available 24/7 from your phone, computer, or tablet, and includes staff-facing technologies that ensure you receive a timely, accurate response — every time. You can expect a response from us within two business days.