Joining

JOINING

Interested in the program? Check out our FAQ below for answers to some of the most common questions. Still not sure if JROTC is right for you? Feel free to contact us or get in touch with your guidance counselor.

Army JROTC, or Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, is a program offered by the Army that many high schools across the US can choose to adopt as part of their elective curriculum. Our mission at JROTC, what we're all about every day, is to motivate young people to become better citizens. After all, the young men and women in our high schools have a direct impact on the future of the country. JROTC provides a structured environment for young men and women where cadets learn about leadership, citizenship, and what it means to be part of a team and lead groups of people. 

Should I join JROTC?

You should join JROTC if you enjoy being part of a great team, learning about how to become a better citizen, learning about the nations history, and what it means to be part of the community, big and small. If you love your country, want to make it a better place, and enjoy being around like-minded individuals, JROTC is for you.

Is JROTC difficult?

JROTC is not a difficult class. Successful cadets wear a uniform once a week and practice good leadership and citizenship in and out of school. Class work includes things such as hands-on team building activities, marksmanship training, leadership/followership lessons, health and wellness, first aid/CPR, physical fitness, American history, and more. 

What credits will I get from taking JROTC?

A student may earn one elective credit for each year of JROTC.  Cadets will also earn one full credit for US History with the completion of three years in the program.  Cadets will also earn credit for the Personal Finance course requirement.  You may take JROTC for up to four years. 

Is there homework?

No! JROTC is primarily a hands-on leadership and citizenship program where most activities are conducted during classroom time, so there's no need to worry. 

Will I have to wear a uniform? 

Yes. Each cadet must wear an Army JROTC uniform one day per week with some special exceptions. 

What is the uniform like?

In JROTC, there are 3 types of uniforms. They are called Class A, B, and C. Class A is your dress blues (dress uniform). Class B includes the dress uniform without the jacket. The Class C uniform is the OCPs (camo uniform) along with a Hawk Battalion t-shirt and hoodie.

Do I have to cut my hair?

Yes. You must meet the grooming standards as outlined in Army JROTC regulations for proper wearing of the uniform. This includes shaving and neatly faded/tapered haircuts for males.  Females only need to have their hair in either a ponytail or bun while in uniform.  Proper grooming in uniform is an integral component in presenting a sharp, professional appearance.

Can I wear jewelry? 

There are some minor limitations while in uniform on the type of jewelry authorized. When not in uniform, the school’s dress policy applies. 

Is the uniform hard to care for?

Not really. Just like any other suit or clothing, it requires regular cleaning, proper hanging, and storage after wear. The uniform is issued to each cadet cleaned, and the cadet is responsible for its upkeep and cleanliness until it is returned at the end of the year.  Only the dress coat is dry-cleaned at the end of the school year.

How do I get promoted and earn awards?

Promotions and awards are presented for good grades and performance in school and JROTC. Teams also earn awards and recognition. Basically, by maintaining good grades, staying out of trouble in and out of school, and following the instructors’ guidance, you will reap the benefits and rewards of promotions and recognition.

Do I have to join the military after being in JROTC?

Absolutely not. We are not recruiters for the armed forces. There is no military obligation or commitment to join the armed services. Many cadets, however, enjoy the discipline and structure JROTC offers, and some cadets want to continue that structure after graduation and join the service. Your instructors can give you advice and support in seeking out such a career path if interested. Cadets may earn appointments to one of the service academies or earn an ROTC scholarship to a university. Cadets who enlist may enter the service at a higher rank and pay grade due to their participation as a cadet in JROTC.