Junior ROTC Begins a New Semester

Novato High School’s fall semester has begun and the school’s Junior ROTC program is once again hard at work. Our first month of the semester was very successful.

First, JROTC hosted a family barbecue both to kick off the start of a great year and to welcome new cadets into the growing JROTC family.  The instructors also hosted a parents seminar on "How to help your student succeed."  The entire day was a huge success with lots of fun and food.

Second, both new and returning cadets have been working very hard to contribute to the program as well as to the community. On Sept. 15, cadets attended a ceremony at the Civic Center honoring prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action. The cadets learned about our nation's history by viewing the solemn event. Our participation in the event ran smoothly thanks to the phenomenal student leadership in JROTC.

Third, part of the JROTC curriculum is public speaking.  Speaking is taught by presenting to the community. On Sept. 15, Cadets Antonio Conrado, Kris Shepardson and Nick Langevin briefed Air Force Academy representatives on the JROTC program. These student were able to demonstrate what they have learned in JROTC very well in giving their presentation.

Fourth, despite the fact that the efforts involved in being a model cadet are time consuming, students in JROTC are constantly being rewarded for their hard work. On Sept. 29, the cadets participated in the annual Young Eagles flight program. The program, run by Mr. Ken Mercer, provided youth an opportunity to experience flying and the flying profession. Local pilots contributed their time to take cadets flying in their personal planes.

Lastly, these events and the several others that JROTC ran this month are the first of many events for the year that show how well the program serves the community and builds better citizens.  Cadet Nick Langevin earning a $600 scholarship from the BBCA for SAT preparation is one of many success stories you will hear this year.

Please support our annual Vets and Cadets Dinner to both honor local Marin veterans and raise funds to support the JROTC program.  The event is scheduled for Nov. 15 at Marin Catholic High School in Kentfield. Veterans and active duty members are complimentary and tickets are $50 and tax deductable. Doors open at 6 p.m. and dinner begins at 7. 

You can purchase tickets by visiting the Building Better Citizens for America  website at www.buildingbettercitizens.org or contacting the JROTC at 415-314-5429. 

The cadets thank the community for all your support. 

Cadet Quiyarra McCahey
Deputy of Operations, Novato High School JROTC