Toms River Schools Launching JROTC Program

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The Toms River Regional School District is launching a JROTC program for the 2022-23 school year that will be open to all high school students in the district.

The Army Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps Academy program, being offered in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense, teaches a host of skills to prepare students for life beyond high school.

Students can enroll in JROTC at any time in high school and they are not required to participate all four years. Participating in the program does not mean a student is obligated to join the military after high school. Students accepted into the program will attend Toms River High School North, which is where the program will be based.

"JROTC is primarily a citizenship program," according to a brochure about the program. "Skills learned through JROTC help students earn college scholarships or get a job."

In addition to promoting citizenship, the program teaches character education, student achievement, health and wellness, leadership, and diversity, the brochure says.

The first year of the program focuses on physical fitness, drill and ceremony (marching), military ranks, flag etiquette, self-discovery, community service and an introduction to leadership.

In the second year, the program teaches students about the U.S. government, land navigation, health and first aid, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, community service, and beginner leadership positions.

The third and fourth years of the program include lessons personal finances, resume writing, job interviewing skills, military history, public speaking, physical fitness, drill and ceremony, community service, and advanced leadership positions.

"While JROTC cadets do not receive any financial compensation while in the high school program, they can receive a sizeable financial benefit if they enlist as they are entitled to advanced promotion as a result of their JROTC experience," the flyer said.

The introduction of the program is the culmination of several years of discussion about bringing JROTC to the Toms River Schools.

Information about the program can be viewed in this video.

Applications for the program are online and are being accepted through July 15.