Garfield High School Army JROTC: Recruit, retain, and reclaim

Writer/Photographer: Raymond Eason, Army Instructor

Following the start of the fall semester, members of the James A. Garfield High School Army JROTC Battalion, Los Angeles, presented their annual JROTC recruitment presentation in the high school gymnasium for the physical education department. The presentation took place during each class period on Aug. 21, as part of the Continuous Improvement project, a requirement of the JROTC Program Accreditation.

JPA serves as a baseline to evaluate a unit’s overall performance and determines its eligibility for maintaining “Honor Unit with Distinction.” The continuous improvement project serves as a tool to identify challenges, develop and implement solutions, and review results to improve battalion operations and cadet involvement. JROTC recruitment day is vital to cadet recruitment, retention, and outreach. As part of the PE department presentations, members are encouraged to share their experiences, educate their peers, and showcase the JROTC benefits with evidence to motivate and inspire students to join.

Upon questioning, incoming students ask, “Why join the JROTC?” The unit has learned to appeal to students through scholarships and financial benefits, refining social skills, and community outreach. JROTC offers a unique curriculum that focuses on character, leadership, and citizenship through classroom instructions, while utilizing the latest cutting-edge technology. The PE department recruiting is instrumental to the continuous improvement program, and our open enrollment.