Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC) is a high school course taught by retired military personnel at selected public and private schools in the United States and its territories. The goal of JROTC is to motivate young people to be better Americans. The program combines classroom instruction and extracurricular activities. JROTC gives instruction about the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of citizenship. It helps to develop the student cadet's sense of personal responsibility. The program also helps to build life skills and provide leadership opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions Students Ask
Why enroll in JROTC? What is studied in JROTC will not be found in any textbook. It will not be studied by any other students or in any other schools. It has not been taught before. It will not be taught again, because the subject of JROTC is YOU! JROTC is all about you. It is devoted to your growth, both as a student and as a person.
Do I have to wear a uniform? A uniform is usually worn one day a week or during participation in special ceremonies.
Does the school provide the uniform or will I have to pay for it? The JROTC program supplies the uniform, books, and any equipment the course requires.
Do I have to get a short haircut? Each program sets the specific grooming guidelines. As one JROTC instructor says, “We’re interested in what’s in your head, not what’s on it.”
What types of extracurricular activities are offered? Each JROTC program is unique. Our program has Color Guard, Drill Team, Rocketry, Tutoring, and Marksmanship.
Will I have to enlist in the military or the reserves after high school? No, you’re under no obligation for any future military service.
Questions Parents Ask
JROTC says it does not recruit, but don’t many JROTC graduates enter the military? The JROTC program is not set up to recruit and does not request or expect a military commitment of any kind. Many cadets, however, find they enjoy military 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.
Is JROTC training as hard as it sounds? The course is demanding, but most of the students who make the effort really enjoy the challenge and thrive on the hard work and discipline.
Who teaches JROTC? JROTC is taught by retired military personnel with years of experience working with young people. Instructors are certified by their respective branch, but are hired by, and work for, the school.
Are there age requirements for JROTC? Yes, a student must be at least 14 years of age to enroll.
Do JROTC students have to be U.S. citizens? No, they do not. Although we teach about the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, we also teach many other subjects that are valuable to students regardless of their citizenship.
Can JROTC help my child go to college? If the potential is there, the program can definitely help. JROTC training improves the ability to study, to take tests, to set goals, and to better focus on academics. These are the tools a student needs to get better grades and to have a better chance to attend college.
Where can I get more information about JROTC? The guidance counselor at your child’s school or the JROTC instructor will be happy to meet with you and answer any questions.