FAQ

AFJROTC Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Will I be required to wear a uniform?

A1. The Air Force uniform is worn one day a week. All uniforms are provided on loan. We provide all alterations. Students are required to clean them as necessary.

Q2. I want to take AFJROTC but don’t want to cut my hair. Can I still take the class?

A2. Boys’ hair must be kept within Air Force standards. This means it cannot touch the ears. Girls’ hair does not need to be cut, but it cannot extend below the bottom of the collar. Girls have the option of putting their hair in a bun or braids.

Q3. Will I have to serve in the military after taking AFJROTC?

A3. Absolutely Not! There is NO military obligation for AFJROTC students and we do not provide student names to military recruiters.

Q4. How much homework is assigned in AFJROTC?

A4. Homework is extremely rare in AFJROTC. Assignments are completed in class so students can work as a team and receive assistance from the instructors. Plus, we limit homework so students can focus on completing assignments in their core classes.

Q5. What is the physical training like in AFJROTC?

A5. We do physical training (PT) on Fridays. Students participate in running/walking, push-ups, sit-ups, and other exercises. The workouts are self-paced but students are encouraged to push themselves physically to achieve greater levels of fitness. Students also participate in team building sports and activities on PT days.

Q6. What type of career will AFJROTC prepare me for?

A6. AFJROTC is a leadership development program that will prepare a student for almost any career option. We also cover college admissions, financing, and preparation.

Q7. Can I take AFJROTC and participate in extra-curricular activities?

A7. Yes. We have a number of students who take AFJROTC while participating in athletics, band, student government, etc. AFJROTC students are encouraged to participate in school activities.

Q8. What type of after school activities does Air Force Junior ROTC offer?

A8. All activities that take place outside normal school hours are voluntary. Our Military Ball is a formal dinner and dance that is open only to JROTC students and their dates. The Ball is held in January. Students can also participate in the AFJROTC annual awards ceremony where we recognize outstanding cadets with regional and national-level awards. Students can also volunteer to participate on our drill team, color guards, air rifle or one of our clubs. Drill team practices are on Zero Hour (0630-0730) before school and the team attends state and regional meets four weekends a year. Color guard performances are almost always after school hours, such as for football and basketball games. Clubs typically meet after school in the JROTC classroom. StellarXplorers is offered during the year, those interested meet after school. Cadet leaders frequently hold planning meetings after school or during lunch.

Q9. How do you discipline students in AFJROTC?

A9. We use positive reinforcement for positive behaviors. These include formal and informal incentives beyond what is provided through the school. Students can earn ribbons that are worn on the uniform for good attendance, academic excellence, proper uniform wear, participation in activities, good conduct, and many others. There are a total of 43 ribbons that can be earned! Students will also receive promotions in rank and increased responsibility as rewards for positive behaviors. Students in good standing academically and behaviorally will be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities. There are negative consequences for negative behaviors to include communication with parents and discipline referrals to school administrators.

Q10. Is physical punishment like push-ups or standing at attention for long periods used in AFJROTC?

A10. Absolutely not! Air Force policy forbids instructors and cadet leaders from using physical discipline. Parents or guardians will be disappointed if they expect AFJROTC to be a disciplinary or rehabilitation program. Hazing is also strictly forbidden. AFJROTC is not “Boot Camp” or basic training.

Q11. Do AFJROTC students gain an advantage for admission to the various service academies, college Air Force ROTC scholarships, or enlistment in the military?

A11. Students who meet the academic, physical, and character requirements have a far better chance for admission to the service academies and Air Force college ROTC scholarships as compared to their peers who are not in AFJROTC. Students who enlist generally are promoted following basic training and earn about $500 more per month.

Q12. I’m very interested in AFJROTC. Is there an activity fee?

A12. No, there is no activity fee.

Q13. What are some of the optional events only available to AFJROTC students?

A13. As mentioned earlier there is the drill team, color guard, and air rifle teams. The drill team competes in a state drill meet and a regional meets. High performing cadets who meet our standards and goals become eligible for a 3-week Summer Leadership School (SLS) at the high school. SLS teaches students fun leadership activities and includes two field trips; one to a ropes course (zip-line), and usually an aviation museum. We also have an Awareness Presentation Team that mentors middle school students.

Q14. What are the standards and goals for the students?

A14. We expect our students to strive to excel as scholars, leaders, and citizens while working together to help make their fellow students and the AFJROTC program successful. Positive reinforcement incentives are provided for goal accomplishment.