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High School Regional Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Leadership - Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps

Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC)

The vision of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) Program is to inspire high school students to become ethical, civic‑minded leaders dedicated to serving and improving their communities. The program equips students with the knowledge, discipline, and leadership skills needed for impactful public service, success in civilian or military pathways, and lifelong civic engagement.

Through structured coursework and experiential learning, students develop character, responsibility, and teamwork while exploring leadership opportunities in diverse settings. JROTC emphasizes personal growth, service to others, and preparation for postsecondary education and career pathways in leadership and public service.

 

 

Core Experiences

  • Earn industry certification in areas such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or unmanned aircraft system piloting
  • Serve as cadet officers or non-commissioned officers leading peers in classes, drill teams, or special projects.
  • Earn college credit
  • Participate in job shadowing or externships in community organizations, hospitals, or civic agencies.
  • Qualify for ROTC scholarships, military academy nominations, or leadership awards.

 

Program Goals

  1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills: Equip students with a strong foundation in leadership, citizenship, and character education. Build essential skills in communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and self-discipline that prepare students for success in both military and civilian life. 
  2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience: Engage students in authentic leadership roles, service-learning projects, and team-based challenges that mirror real-world decision-making and responsibility. Through drill, community service, field exercises, and leadership labs, students apply classroom learning in meaningful, practical settings.
  3. Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways: Prepare students for postsecondary success by connecting classroom learning to diverse opportunities in public service, government, defense, and community leadership. Encourage exploration of college programs, military service options, and civic engagement pathways that promote lifelong leadership and contribution to society.

 

Application & Locations

Application: Interest-based application

Schools:

  • Region 2: Paint Branch (Navy JROTC)
  • Region 5: Magruder (Army JROTC)

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the JROTC Program. Cells in orange are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Grades 6–8 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12

Career Advising

Summer Enrichment & Preparation
Naval Science or Military Science 1 Naval Science or Military Science 2

Naval Science or Military Science 3

 Naval Science or Military Science 4
Science Science Science Elective
Math Math Math Math
English English English English
US History US Government (NSL) World History Elective
World Language World Language World Language or Elective World Language or Elective
Technology Elective Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health) Elective (PE, Fine Arts or Health)

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, studentsmust complete the following to remain enrolled in the JROTC Program and earn the related certificate:

 

  • Naval Science 1, 2, 3 & 4 (Navy JROTC) or
  • Military Science 1, 2, 3 & 4 (Army JROTC)