At St. James R-1, our mission is rooted in caring relationships, academic excellence, and strong community partnerships. Bringing that mission to life means preparing students not just for graduation, but for what comes next.
That is where Market Value Assets, or MVAs, come in.
MVAs are industry-valued skills and experiences students gain during high school that help bridge the gap between graduation and their next step, whether that is college, technical training, or entering the workforce. These opportunities give students a clear advantage by connecting learning to real-world applications.
Through a growing network of community mentors and hands-on experiences, students are building skills that matter beyond the classroom.
Our Focus Areas
Internships - Students complete meaningful job tasks at local worksites under the guidance of experienced supervisors, gaining firsthand insight into career pathways.
Client-Connected Projects - Students work with real clients to solve authentic problems, creating professional-level products and developing critical thinking skills.
Entrepreneurial Experiences - Students identify real needs in the community or marketplace and build solutions from the ground up, learning what it takes to launch and manage a business.
Industry Recognized Credentials (IRC) - Students earn certifications through validated training programs, opening doors to higher earning potential and career opportunities right after graduation.
College Credit - Students get a head start on their future by earning nine or more college credits while still in high school.
Looking Ahead
Market Value Assets strengthen the connection between our schools and the community. By expanding learning beyond the traditional classroom, we are creating experiences that are both meaningful and transformative.
At St. James R-1, students are not just graduating. They are leaving prepared, confident, and ready to take the next step on the road forward!