A: JROTC is an authorized program of instruction/education enacted by Congress in response to the needs expressed by the citizens of the United States. It is designed to teach leadership principles and techniques through practical application.
Q: What are the objectives of the JROTC program?
A: To develop in each cadet: a. Good citizenship and patriotism. b. Self-reliance, self-confidence, self-discipline, leadership, and responsiveness to constituted authority. c. Ability to communicate well. d. Appreciation for the importance of physical fitness. e. Appreciation for the roles of the Armed Services in support of National Objectives. f. Knowledge of basic military organization subjects. Q: Is there any Military commitment by taking JROTC? A:NO! Neither the purpose or the objectives mentioned above pose any commitment to the armed forces. (If however, a student does choose to join any branch of the armed forces later, the time he/she spent in JROTC will be of great benefit both practically, and financially.)
Q: What will a cadet encounter and do in his/her first year?
A: The curriculum for the first year in JROTC includes:
a. Leadership, drill and development which makes up 25% of the grade.
b. Academic subjects will make up 25% of the grade (grades on quizzes and
exams). Subjects include:
1. Introduction to US Military Services (Customs, Courtesies, and Traditions) and the study of Department of Defense and National Security Organization.
2. Instruction and participation in Basic Drill, the Manual of Arms and how to conduct parades and inspections.
3. Weapons safety and marksmanship. All students will be taught how to Safely handle and fire a .177mm match air rifle. (Currently not authorized with Chicago Schools)
4. Proper wear of the Marine Corps uniform. Uniform is worn 1 day a week (at a minimum) and 25% of the grade is relevant to wear and maintenance of uniform.
5. Military history and citizenship (U.S.) classes.
6. Map-reading, public speaking, class presentations, problem solving, and personal hygiene.
Q: Can a cadet play sports and still be in JROTC?
A:YES!
In fact, special recognition is given to JROTC cadets who participate in Varsity and Junior Varsity sports.
Q: How often do cadets wear the Marine Corps Uniform?
A: A minimum of once every week, sometimes more depending on events. The purpose of wearing the uniform is to teach the cadet how to lookprofessional and to properly care for it as well as focus on the details of putting all ofthe parts of the uniform in the proper place... neatly and shined.
Q: If a cadet takes JROTC in 9th grade, are they required to take it every year they attend school?
A:NO!
There is no requirement to take more than one semester at a time, however, JROTC is progressive program and enrollment for all for years is preferred. Participation for 2-4 years of JROTC could mean extra pay and higher rank should the cadet decide to enter the service after high school. It is also a factor in competition for ROTC scholarships and Service Academy appointments at the college level.
Q: Are there any financial obligations when a cadet joins?
A: NO!
Except for the dry cleaning of the uniform-- all uniform issue and accessories are free of charge and will be on temporary loan to the cadet for as long as they are enrolled in the JROTC program. Currently, orientation trips to military installations are paid for by the Marine Corps (includes transportation, food, and lodging).
Q: Are there any physical requirements in JROTC?
A:YES!
Physical training is conducted one day per week. A physical fitness test is conducted every six weeks for score. The events include: maximum pull-ups (male)/maximum hang-time (chin over bar) (female); maximum sit-ups in 2 minutes (male and female); 600 yard run (male and female).
Q: What are the benefits of taking JROTC?
A: A cadet will learn self-esteem, self-respect, and the relevance of constituted authority (chain of command, employers, parents, teachers, etc.). Cadets will also receive classes on note taking and how to prepare for exams. The JROTC program gives classes in Leadership, Ethical Standards, Goal Setting, Public Speaking, Substance Abuse, Stress Management, Close Order Drill, Marksmanship, Military History, Rank Structure, just to name a few. If a cadet chooses to enroll in the Armed Forces or Senior ROTC they will receive advanced placement and/or additional pay while in the service.
Above all, is the sure knowledge that everything taught in JROTC will stay with a cadet for a long while-- providing them greater ability to deal with everyday problems encountered in everyday life.