STEM

CyberPatriot is the National Youth Cyber Education Program created by the Air & Space Forces Association to inspire K-12 students toward careers in cybersecurity or other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines critical to our nation’s future.

At the core of the program is the National Youth Cyber Defense Competition, the nation’s largest cyber defense competition that puts high school and middle school students in charge of securing virtual networks

The Curtis High School NJROTC Drone Team represents hands on skill, focus, and teamwork. Cadets learn to operate advanced drones with confidence, building real abilities in flight control, aerial photography, and gathering information from above.

Every mission calls for smart planning, steady maneuvering, and strong communication. Cadets rely on each other to carry out challenging flights and complete their objectives safely and accurately.

Along the way, team members grow as leaders and problem solvers. They support one another, push through obstacles, and take pride in their progress. The Drone Team reflects the dedication, discipline, and innovation that define Curtis High School NJROTC.

JLAB is a national U.S. Military sponsored competition that challenges cadets in academic knowledge, leadership, and teamwork. Open to high school JROTC programs across the country, it promotes critical thinking, discipline, and high-level performance under pressure.

Participation in JLAB demonstrates strong leadership development, academic excellence, and collaborative skills. It highlights your ability to excel in demanding environments qualities that colleges and universities value and adds a distinguished, military-affiliated achievement to your extracurricular profile. 

We encourage all cadets, whether they are on the Academic Team or not, to check out the videos from USAA EF and to prepare for the ACT, SAT, and ASVAB tests by reviewing English, science, and math coursework. In addition to the college prep materials available on your COFcontests.com dashboard under Resources, there are several resources available, free-of-charge, to all students.  Websites to review include:

SeaPerch is an innovative underwater robotics program that provides teachers and students with the tools and guidance to build a fully functional Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Using a low cost kit made from easily accessible parts, students follow a curriculum that introduces essential engineering and science concepts through a marine‑engineering theme. Throughout the build, they gain hands‑on experience in robotics, engineering, science, and mathematics while practicing problem solving, teamwork, and technical skills.

Constructing a SeaPerch ROV also exposes students to foundational principles of ship and submarine design, encouraging exploration of naval architecture and ocean engineering. The program reinforces tool safety, engineering processes, and technical procedures, while introducing students to the wide range of STEM careers available in naval, ocean, and marine engineering.