Boca Ciega High School

Frequently Asked Questions

What does JROTC stand for?

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps

Who are the instructors?

The Senior Army Instructor (SAI) Major (Ret) Lonnie Spangler.

Are both girls and boys enrolled?

Yes. All leadership positions are available to both sexes equally.

Is JROTC like Military Boot camp?

Like previously mentioned, JROTC is not affiliated with the Army in terms of recruitment. Physical Training days are in the regular schedule, since JROTC counts for both a HOPE credit and a Fine Arts credit (These two being acquired after being in the program for two years). But that does not mean JROTC is anything near to a quote "bootcamp"

What about the leadership training?

In JROTC, being a leader means to be able to influence cadets in order to accomplish the mission of JROTC. The curriculum teaches all aspects of being a good follower and being a good leader.

Can cadets still do other activities, outside JROTC?

Certainly, JROTC students are involved in everything from varsity sports to band, chorus, student government, and other clubs. You can spend as much or as little time as you want to with JROTC. The program offers several additional teams (marksmanship, drill, raiders, and exhibition) that cadets may join in additional to the normal JROTC class. The program encourages practical application in other school activities as well as in JROTC.

How can students enroll in the program?

If you want to be in the program it is as simple as signing up for the course with your guidance counselor. Any person can start JROTC any grade in high school, it is not required that you enroll in ninth grade but it is encouraged.

What does the JROTC program offer that I can't get anywhere else?

The program has a lot to offer young women and men who want to get the most out of their high school years. JROTC gives students the chance to acquire basic military knowledge and leadership abilities, but its primary objective is to develop good citizenship and patriotism in each student.

If a person is a member of the Army JROTC program can they still join a different military branch?

A cadet can still join the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps if they choose. The JROTC program will focus mainly on the Army and its role in the world, but there are many opportunities to learn about any of the other branches of the military and the jobs that they have to offer. After 4 years of successful participation in the Army JROTC program will result in a certification enabling a new recruit to enlist in the armed forces at a slightly advanced rank

Where can I find things such as announcements, pictures, and photos?

To make the management of photographs and videos easier, both are put on our Facebook page which you can access here.

For Students

Is JROTC a required course?

No, JROTC is not a required course at Boca Ciega High School, it is an elective.

What is the class like?

The program is an elective class. Students are enrolled in the class each semester. JROTC combines remarkable classroom instruction with the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities, social activities, and have the chance to be in leadership positions.

How do I apply?

JROTC is just like any other elective. One can sign up to be in the class and then you have access to the plethora of benefits being in JROTC warrants.

What if the class isn't for me?

JROTC is voluntary, you will have to see your designated guidance counselor. We tell all students and future cadets to at least try it for a year.

How often do cadets have to wear the uniform?

After receiving a uniform in the beginning of their first year, cadets are required to wear the Army JROTC uniform once a week on uniform day. Beginning in the SY 21-22, There will be four designated Uniform Days in a given month. The Cadets will be required to wear the official Army JROTC uniform two days and the Cadets will be required to wear the Alternate program-specific Polo/Hoddie on the other two days. Usually, at BCHS, uniform day is in the middle of each week, but there are exceptions due to block schedules and events. The uniform is provided by the military, and is custom-fitted to each cadet. The uniform consists of a pair of navy blue trousers, black shoes, black socks, a black belt and buckle, and a white shirt. An alternate uniform may be worn if you are a member of a program, special team, or are a senior cadet. Cadets earn their rank and the awards to put on their uniforms. It is considered an honor to wear the uniform and cadets wear it with pride.

Are there special regulations I have to follow?

Yes, although not to the extreme. There are, however, regulations about the personal appearance of cadets, wearing of the uniform, and even how to address the other military personnel and cadets. For example, on uniform day, males must have their hair not exceed past their ears lengthwise, and female cadets must have their hair off the collar in a bun.

What kind of recognition can students get by participating in the program?

There are a large number of awards which cadets can earn for participation and achievement in the program. Some are given by the unit, but others can be awarded by military organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Order of Purple Heart, and the Daughters of the American Revolution. These are just a few of the organizations that give awards. All awards have certain criteria, but are open to all who achieve that criteria. Involvement, good leadership traits, and being an active participant of the program are the main requirements.

What kind of things can I actually do instead of just joining a team?

JROTC is involved in many of the events that happen in your community. We volunteer every year at events like Toys for Tots.

If you have any questions about the JROTC program at Boca Ciega High School, please contact us!