JROTC Curriculum Overview

The JROTC curriculum — which fully or partially aligns with national academic standards including Common Core — includes coursework on leadership, civics, global awareness, health and wellness, language arts, life skills, and U.S. history. It’s built on performance-based, learner-centered education and promotes development of core abilities such as lifelong learning, communication, personal responsibility, citizenship, respect, and critical thinking.

More important than what is learned in JROTC is how it’s learned. Every classroom is equipped with modern technology to teach, assess, and track progress. Instructors utilize simulation tools, gaming, and social media to build both academic and emotional intelligence — helping students engage in purposeful activities and showcase accomplishments through personal portfolios.

Every learning experience integrates Core Abilities, Program Outcomes, and Course Competencies — all key to long-term student success in high school and beyond.

Core Abilities

These are lifelong skills developed over four years through JROTC coursework and practical experiences:

  • Apply critical thinking techniques
  • Build capacity for life-long learning
  • Communicate using verbal, non-verbal, visual, and written techniques
  • Do your share as a good citizen in your school, community, country, and the world
  • Take responsibility for your actions and choices
  • Treat self and others with respect

Program Outcomes

Program outcomes describe what JROTC Cadets will know and be able to do upon successful completion of the program. These outcomes support accreditation, inform stakeholders, and guide instructional focus. They are reinforced through LET-level curriculum and demonstrated in student portfolios:

  • Act with integrity and personal accountability while leading others in a diverse and global workforce
  • Engage in civic and social concerns in the community, government, and society
  • Graduate prepared for post-secondary education and career success
  • Make decisions that promote positive social, emotional, and physical health
  • Value the role of the military and other service organizations

Course Competencies

Competencies are measurable skills and knowledge tied to each lesson. Cadets demonstrate mastery by completing tasks that may require them to:

  • Make a decision
  • Perform a skill
  • Perform a service
  • Solve a problem
  • Create a product