• Q. WHAT IS JROTC?

    A. JROTC is an elective class that is offered for up to four years beginning with Leadership Education Training – 1 (LET-1).  The course provides academic credit just as any other elective course in high school.  The curriculum emphasis is on citizenship, leadership, teamwork and personal responsibility.  Students are required to wear uniforms once a week.  These uniforms are provided to the students free of charge so long as they are returned at the end of the year or whenever they leave the program.

    Q. IF I TAKE JROTC, DO I GO INTO THE ARMY WHEN I GRADUATE?

    A. JROTC does not obligate any student to enter the military at any level.  Neither does the JROTC program recruit students for any military service.  However, some students do decide that they will enter the military upon graduation and their JROTC experience is an advantage.

    Q. WHY WOULD JROTC BE A GOOD CHOICE?

    A.  There are several great reasons why JROTC is a great program for students, parents and the community.  These are a few:

    1. It is a fantastic peer group.  JROTC students are a cross-section of the student body as a whole.  However, most teachers and administrators will tell you that JROTC students are more self-disciplined and motivated than their counterparts who do not take JROTC.  We seek to instill positive personal morals, respect and responsibility.  These are characteristics that carry our students throughout their high school years and into adult life.
    2. It has many extracurricular activities.  A common denominator for JROTC students is their level of involvement in school sponsored extra-curricular activities and community service.  It is generally recognized that students involved in wholesome activities tend to present fewer problems at school and at home.  JROTC provides opportunities to become involved in after school activities like Saber’s Honor Club (3.0 GPA), RAIDER Platoon, Air Rifle Team, Color Guard and Drill Team.
    3. It assists in attaining scholarship and increased rank in the military.  Some students do take JROTC with an eye on entering the military after graduation.  Others have desires to obtain ROTC scholarships to college or to attend one of our nation’s prestigious military academies.  Those who complete 2 to 4 years of JROTC may enter service having already achieved rank that will provide increased pay from $350 to $700 per month. For those students who wish to go on to college, we get literature and share our knowledge to mentor and assist them to achieve their goals of an education and commission as a military officer.
    4. It has a dedicated Cadre (Instructors) who are concerned with each student’s success.  ROTC Instructors are retired military professionals certified to teach and mentor high school students.  Each of us has experienced a great deal of the world and have children of our own.  From this vantage, we consider our work a calling rather than just a job.

    Q:  You say you're not recruiting, but don't many JROTC graduates enter the military?

    A:  Many cadets find they enjoy military discipline and structure; it brings out their best and allows them to excel.  Some win appointments to one of the military academies.  And those who enlist can enter military service at a higher rank and pay grade.  But the JROTC program DOES NOT request or expect a military commitment of any kind.

    Q:  Can JROTC help students go to college?

    A:  We definitely can help.  JROTC training improves the ability to study, take tests, to set goals, and to focus. What are colleges looking for Leader, Scholar, and Athlete.

    Q:  Do cadets have to wear uniforms?

    A:  Yes, but usually only once a week, or when taking part in special ceremonies.  The rest of the time normal clothing, such as the school uniform, is fine.

    Q:  Are there any fees for uniforms, books, or special equipment?

    A:  The JROTC program supplies uniforms, books, and all other equipment used in the course, free of charge.  There is a fee if the uniform is damaged, lost, or stolen. Anual Military Ball cost is $30 but may be defrayed through fundraising. You may also make payments to LTC Baker, if you would like to break it up.

    Q:  Is JROTC as hard as it sounds?

    A:  The course is demanding, but most students who make an effort really enjoy the challenge and thrive on the hard work and discipline.

    Q:  Who teaches JROTC?

    A:  Retired Army personnel with years of experience working with young people are the instructors.  They are certified by the U. S. Army, but they are hired by, and work for, the school.  We have state-of-the-art instruction techniques. 

    Q:  Are there any age requirements to be in JROTC?

    A:  There's no firm age requirement, but students must be in at least the 9th grade to take JROTC.


    Q:  Where can I get more information about JROTC?

    A:  The guidance counselor at school or the JROTC instructors will be happy to meet with you and answer any questions. Our contact information is

    LTC Baker or SFC Corbett at 910-845-2649.

    email- LTC Baker- gbaker@bcswan.net 

    email- SFC Corbett- dcorbett@bcswan.net