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The Gaither High School NJROTC is an accredited program under the Naval Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps.

There are currently 27 JROTC programs in Hillsborough County Public Schools and career centers across the district, of which there are ten Army programs, nine Navy programs, seven Air Force programs, and one Marine program. Gaither’s Navy JROTC is the only program in Hillsborough County that is Nationally ranked, earning first place in Academics, Drill, Color Guard and Athletics. The Cadets at Gaither High School represent 15% of the schools total population.

The Nationals Competition is a process of elimination that begins with area drill meets throughout the school year and ending locally, with a State level competition. Top competitors from each state can qualify for the national level. All together there are approximately 559,319 JROTC cadets who want the rights to the National Trophy.

The NJROTC program at Gaither High School is veteran led; the curriculum is designed to teach high school students about leadership, geography, civics, health, global awareness, life skills and U.S. history. With this focus on leadership, core values, abilities and self-discipline, cadets are better positioned to function in life itself, even if they never go into the military. [Ronald D. Kness Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) 34th ID, MN ARNG]

The JROTC program does not recruit for military service, but the program does offer tangible experience should enlistment interest a Cadet. While it's not the only benefit, completing a JROTC program does help students advance to the military. A student who successfully completes a JROTC program can enter the service at a higher rank. That means a higher pay. Students can also enter a senior ROTC program in college and may qualify for scholarships. https://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/resources/how-jrotc-prepares-students-for-academic-and-career-success/

The learning benefits of being part of the Gaither NJROTC program include:


 * Leadership skills
 * Self-confidence
 * Discipline
 * Communication and collaborative skills
 * College financial planning skills  (e.g. how to fill out the FAFSA, how to find and apply for scholarships and grants)
 * Community service skills
 * Accountability
 * Time-management
 * Problem-solving skills