The Valley Chronicle - SJ Unified AFJROTC Unit Receives ‘Exceeds Stan

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The Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) at San Jacinto High School was recently evaluated by U.S. Air Force representatives.[/caption] ■ Staff reports / Press release The Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) at SJUSD’s San Jacinto High School earned an overall unit assessment score of “Exceeds Standards,” the highest rating attainable during their evaluation on January 17, 2017, by the Headquarters AFJROTC under the U.S. Air Force. “ stated Col. Bobby C. Woods, Jr., Director of the HQ AFJROTC in his recent letter of congratulations. San Jacinto High’s unit was evaluated by Col. (Retired) Peter Gray, to provide feedback on their performance and assess their compliance with Public Law, Department of Defense and Air Force Instructions, and the written agreement that exists between SJUSD and the Air Force. Instructors Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Michael B. Howard, Senior Master Sergeant (Retired) Richard J. DeMarti, and Senior Master Sergeant (Retired) Troy L. Loar were all noted as exceptional role models and providing a quality AFJROTC program. “The strength of our program is reflected in the instructors. I had no doubt that the inspection would reflect their hard work and dedication to our cadets,” shared Principal Luke Smith. He added, “Our cadets are amazing individuals who we are proud to have represented San Jacinto High School. We look to them for inspiration and for examples for all our students to follow. I couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of them and am so pleased that this inspection validated what we already know to be true about them!” The district agrees that the AFJROTC citizenship program is making a positive impact on the cadets, the school and the community. “Our ROTC is an amazing place of connection for our students where character, honor and professionalism are evident in every cadet,” said Superintendent Diane Perez. “It has provided hope and opportunities to students, many of whom have gone on to college and to be successful, contributing members of our community,” she continued, “and I am from an Air Force family and wholeheartedly support this incredible program.” San Jacinto High AFJROTC unit was just the sixth one launched in the state of California when it was established in 2001. In addition to grade-level specific classes, cadets engage in social events, community service opportunities, field trips, exposure to remote-controlled aircraft and model rocketry, along with other extracurricular activities. A significant advantage of selecting the AFJROTC learning pathway is earning a certificate of training or a certificate of completion after two-three successful years in the program, which means advanced rank (and pay) if enlisting in the armed forces after graduation. Cadets serving as an officer in the program have an advantage when competing for appointments to service academies and when applying for ROTC scholarships to colleges and universities. For more information about the San Jacinto High AFJROTC program, please contact Col. Howard at (951) 654-7374 or mhoward@sanjacinto.k12.ca.us.