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Navy JROTC offers students a structured path to personal growth and leadership. Through a peer-led, hands-on curriculum, cadets develop Character, Competence, and Commitmentβskills valuable in any career. Cadets who participate gain leadership experience, learn to overcome challenges, and contribute to their school and community. Documented leadership roles in JROTC are respected by colleges, employers, scholarship boards, and military recruiters.
Open to all willing LDHS students, JROTC especially encourages Freshmen and Sophomore enrollment to maximize the four-year experience. The program is voluntary, fulfills a PE credit, and now counts as a CTE credit in South Carolinaβhelping students become more college and career ready.
Established by Public Law in 1964, Navy JROTC is taught by retired military instructors in accredited high schools nationwide. While organized in structure, it is not a recruiting program. There is no obligation to serve. The Navy provides all uniforms, materials, and travel supportβmaking this a valuable and accessible opportunity for willing and participative students.
Success is a Choice. Choose JROTC. Choose Success.
Many believe JROTC is only for future military members, but itβs actually for any student who willingly wants to build character, leadership, and life skillsβno military interest required.
JROTC offers a unique, hands-on learning experience that covers personal development, leadership, citizenship, study skills, physical fitness, military history, and drill. Led by retired military instructors, cadets wear a uniform weekly to promote pride and unity.
While the program benefits students interested in military service, itβs just as valuable for those pursuing college or careers. Thereβs no obligation to join the military, and cadets gain real-world skills that stand out on college and scholarship applications. Many schools offer scholarships exclusively to JROTC students with no military commitment.
JROTC participation often leads to better grades, attendance, and behavior for those who are willing to participate and are committed to their personal development. Cadets grow more confident, goal-driven, and connected to a supportive, achievement-oriented community.
High school can be challengingβbut JROTC helps willing students develop the discipline and leadership to succeed in any path they choose.
JROTC: More Than a High School Program β It's a Path to Personal Success
Foster patriotism and pride in country
Develop informed, responsible, and engaged citizens
Cultivate respect for lawful authority and the rule of law
Build leadership skills and potential in all cadets
Encourage high school graduation and academic success
Inspire pursuit of higher education and lifelong learning
Promote active community service and civic responsibility
Instill discipline, personal honor, and self-reliance
Enhance understanding of national security and global awareness
Provide accurate information about military service opportunities
Encourage and support a healthy, active lifestyle
Opportunities to develop citizenship and leadership skills
Visits and orientations for college and military service options
Access to college, ROTC, and preparatory scholarships
Involvement in community service and school support activities
Guidance from experienced instructors and mentors
Comprehensive fitness training and promotion of healthy lifestyle choices
Improved self-discipline and boosted confidence
Enhanced personal responsibility and accountability
Strengthened pathways for post-high school education and careers
Eligibility for Service Academy nominations
Team-based environment with hands-on, experiential learning activities
To develop confidence and discipline
To learn life skills for future careers
To be part of a team and build strong character
To better handle challenges at school and home
To find positive role models and a supportive community
To belong to something bigger than themselves
To gain structure and get their life on track
To gain experience before joining the military
To identify their mentors and learn from them
JROTC instructors provide essential counseling and support to cadets facing academic or personal challenges, serving as trusted advocates and positive role models. The program is a valuable asset to both the school and the broader community.
JROTC teaches young people important values often missing in todayβs society and many homes, including self-discipline, respect for others and themselves, leadership, and sound decision-making.
The leader development program is a vital part of our schoolβs curriculum. Academically, it supports key educational goals, while its strong emphasis on leadership and citizenship is evident through cadet involvement in all areas of school and community life.