"It's different from other classes...kids learn how to teach others..."

"It helped me to focus on my other classes too."

About JROTC Program

The Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is a program offered to high schools that teaches students character education, student achievement, wellness, leadership, and diversity. It is a cooperative effort between the Army and the high schools to produce successful students and citizens, while fostering in each school a more constructive and disciplined learning environment. The outcomes of the JROTC program are:

-Act with integrity and personal accountability as they lead others to succeed in a diverse and global workforce.
-Engage civic and social concerns in the community, government, and society
-Graduate prepared to excel in post-secondary options and career pathways
-Make decisions that promote positive social, emotional, and physical health
-Value the role of the military and other service organizations

The JROTC Program at Southern Garrett High School is a dynamic and highly visible unit. As such, your membership in this highly motivated organization includes both specified and implied responsibilities of a personal and professional nature. With the school’s support, the JROTC program achieves these outcomes by using a world-class 21st Century, technology-driven, student-centered curriculum. The curriculum consists of education in citizenship, leadership, social and communication skills, physical fitness and wellness, geography, and civics.

The curriculum is facilitated and taught by retired Army personnel. Qualified retired Army personnel are employed by schools to teach the JROTC curriculum. JROTC teaching qualifications are based on military experience, maturity, stability, and leadership acquired over 20 years of service to our nation. To safeguard the viability of the JROTC program, the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Education endorse the proposition that states recognize that JROTC instructors are certified to teach JROTC and the array of subject areas embedded (e.g., Physical Education, Health/Wellness, Civics, etc.).

This course of instruction is not like other course offerings. We have a definite culture in JROTC that contributes to personal self-development and the maintenance of a positive learning environment. The moment you walk through the JROTC classroom door you will notice a difference in the atmosphere that we are proud of and insist on supporting. You will also notice that you are immediately presumed to be a young adult and that all that you show, say, and do will reflect that fact.

We are about learning, following, leading, and becoming more informed about the real world. We come to understand that our actions and words result in logical consequences. We are positive about ourselves and others and look for the lessons hiding in each of life's experiences. We keep in mind that people and the world around us will respond based on our contributions and action... not on our unobserved potential.

For the majority of the cadets who participate in this program, life becomes something with clear objectives, goals, and many positive career/educational options to select from upon graduation. So, get on board the train........ the ticket to ride is an open mind, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn.

Questions People Ask About JROTC

Q. You say you're not recruiting, but don't many JROTC graduates enter the military?
A. Many cadets find they enjoy 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. The JROTC program, however, is not set up to recruit and does not request or expect a military commitment of any kind. A student that has military service as a plan can definitely benefit from JROTC, but the program is designed to " motivate young people to be better citizens" not recruit for the military.

Q. Can JROTC help students go to college?
A. We definitely can help. JROTC training improves the ability to study, to take tests, to set goals, and to focus.

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 is fine.

Q. Are there any fees for uniforms, books, or special equipment?
A. The JROTC program supplies uniforms, books, and all equipment used in the course, free of charge.

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. Instructors are certified by the Army, but they are hired by and work for the school. Besides having state-of-the-art instruction techniques at their command, JROTC instructors serve as exceptional role models for maturing teenagers.

Q. Are there any age requirements for JROTC?
A. There's no firm age requirement but students must be in 9th grade to take JROTC.

Q. What does LET mean?
A. Leadership Education Training

Q. How many LET levels are there?
A. There are eight levels of JROTC available at SGHS

Q. How many credits per JROTC class?
A. 1 Credit per class

Q. Where can I get more information about JROTC?
A. The guidance counselor at the school or the JROTC instructors will be happy to meet with you and answer questions. Email Ralph Sheaffer or Email VerleWright.