West Aurora Air Force ROTC 'Exceeds Standards,' Evaluation Found

AURORA, IL — West Aurora High School's Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps received the highest rating attainable in its formal evaluation conducted Jan. 29.

Instructors and cadets earned an overall unit assessment score of "exceeds standards," West Aurora School District 129 announced.

The purpose of the evaluation was to provide feedback on the unit and to assess its compliance with Public Laws, Department of Defense and Air Force Instructions, and the written agreement between the school and the Air Force.

The evaluation commended the 145 cadets and 27 cadet commanders' exceptional performance and pride in accomplishing their unit goals.

In a letter to West Aurora High School Principal Chuck Hiscock, Paul Lorkowski, regional director of AFJROTC, praised instructors Master Sgt. Scott Hellinger and Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Pierzchala for creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment as well as excellent community outreach, according to a news release from District 131. Officials said the instructors have provided "outstanding leadership in administering the cadet-centered citizenship program."

"West Aurora High School's Air Force Junior ROTC has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, and their 'Exceeds Standards' rating is a testament to the exceptional dedication of our instructors and cadets," Jeff Craig, superintendent of West Aurora School District 129, said in a statement. "This achievement reflects the high standards we uphold in our district, and we are immensely proud of the positive impact the AFJROTC citizenship program has on our students and community. It exemplifies the values of leadership, discipline, and community service that our schools instill in our students every day."