Why Should I join JROTC?

 

You should join JROTC if you enjoy being part of a great team, learning about the military, 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? What is the grading like?

 

JROTC is not intended to be and is not a difficult class. Successful cadets wear their uniform when you are required (once a week) and practice good ethics and leadership in and out of school. There are also classroom lessons and discussions which will affect your grade as well. 

 

What credits Will I get from taking JROTC?

 

A student may earn one elective credit for each year of JROTC. A student will fulfill one half (1/2) year social studies requirement for completing the first two years of JROTC, and a second half (1/2) year social studies requirement for completing the last two years of JROTC. This will count as one of the four required social studies courses at Hermon High School. You may take JROTC for up to four years. However, if you do not choose to take JROTC as a class all four years of your high school career, you can not earn an entire social studies credit.

 

Is there homework?

 

Very rarely. JROTC is primarily a leadership program, so there's no need to worry. JROTC is the least homework driven class you'll take.

 

Will I have to wear a uniform?

 

Yes. Each cadet must wear a standard US Army JROTC uniform one day per week. Wearing the uniform properly is an expectation of successful membership in the program. Along with a Class A uniform for formal events.

 

What is the uniform like?

 

In JROTC, there are 3 uniform types of uniforms we currently have adopted. They are called Class A, B, and C. Class A is your dress blues. Class B is identical with the exception of no jacket, and it is less popular than your other uniform types. Class C consists of the ACU's along with a Hawk Battalion t-shirt and sweatshirt.

 

Do I have to cut my hair?

 

Yes. You must meet the grooming standards as outlined in the Army regulations for proper wearing of the uniform. This includes shaving for all males, and hair up off the collar and off the face for females. Proper grooming in uniform is an integral component in presenting a sharp, professional appearance.

 

Can I wear jewelry?

 

There are restrictions 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 of nice proper clothing, it requires regular dry cleaning and 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.

 

Will other students make fun of me in uniform?

 

They may, but those are usually the students who are not involved in any activities at school or have a low opinion or no confidence in themselves. Our cadets feel a special bond with each other in theprogram and look extremely sharp in their uniforms on inspection days. The teachers and majority of students at school are extremely supportive of our program and give proper praise and recognition to the cadets in their class.

 

Do females have as many opportunities?

 

Absolutely. Both males and females have the same opportunities for promotion, awards, or any activity or team in the program. Males and Females are equally considered for all of the duty positions and leadership opportunities. Good Leadership knows no gender!

 

What is the uniform like?

 

In JROTC, there are 3 uniform classes we currently have adopted. They are called Class A, B, and C. Class A is your dress greens or blues. Class B is identical with the exception of no jacket, and it is less popular than your other uniform setups. Class C consists of the ACU's along with a Hawk Battalion t-shirt and sweatshirt.

 

What is the classroom/learning environment like in JROTC?

 

It's awesome. The classroom is unlike anything any other class has to offer. Cadets are often directly involved and encouraged to always be asking questions. Cadets often have the opportunity to teach some of the lessons too. We often spend time outside in the warmer months playing sports such as Frisbee and kickball. In the cold months, we watch a movie or documentary every Friday. Some films that we own and have received great reviews from cadets are: Unbroken, Major Payne, America: The Story Of Us, The World Wars, and Band Of Brothers.

 

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 school, and following the instructors’ guidance, you will reap the benefits and rewards of promotion and recognition.

 

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

 

Absolutely not. We are not a recruiter for the armed forces. There is no military obligation or commitment to join the armed services. Many cadets, however, enjoy the military discipline and structure JROTC brings to them, and they 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. Being in JROTC can also help with adjustment to military life and understanding of military structure. Other cadets may win appointments to one of the service academies or earn a ROTC scholarship to a university. Cadets who do enlist may enter the service at a higher rank and pay grade.