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JROTC

JROTC Dragon Battalion
JROTC OVERVIEW:
The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) is one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youth in the world. The National Defense Act of 1916 established organized JROTC
programs at public and private educational institutions. Each military service supports a JROTC program to “instill in students in United States secondary educational institutions the values of citizenship, service to the United States, and personal responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.”
 
JROTC’s mission: “To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens”, is the guide post for the program’s
success.

Horizon Science Academy’s JROTC program is one of over 1,700 JROTC programs, currently serving public and private high schools, military institutions, and correctional centers throughout the United States and overseas. Approximately 40% of JROTC programs are in inner city schools, serving a student population of 50% minorities. As JROTC students (Cadets) progress through the program, they experience opportunities to lead other Cadets. A major component of the JROTC leadership and citizenship program is female Cadets. Female Cadets make up 40% of he Cadet population. The JROTC faculty is led by nearly 4,000 instructors, who have retired from active duty, reserve duty, or National Guard Army service. Instructors are trained and qualified in accordance with the National Defense Authorization Act of 2007 to teach and mentor approximately 314,000 JROTC Cadets annually.
 
JROTC CURRICULUM:
The U.S. Army JROTC program has been accredited as a Special Purpose Program by the national accrediting agency now known as Cognia www.cognia.org JROTC curriculum provides fair, open, and challenging academic content and authentic learning experiences for all Cadets. JROTC curriculum includes lessons in leadership, health and wellness, physical fitness, first-aid, geography, American history and government, communications, emotional intelligence and most importantly, Service Learning. During Service Learning, Cadets learn valuable lessons on giving back and being positive, proactive member of their communities.
 
JROTC CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:
Cadets have the opportunity to participate in a variety of co-curricular activities to demonstrate their attainment of lesson outcomes. Some of these activities include precision and exhibition military drill competitions, air rifle competitions (optional), Raider Challenge competitions, JROTC Leadership and Academic Bowl (JLAB), Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Camp, and a physical fitness competition known as JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge (JCLC). Cadets who complete 4 years of JROTC co-curricular activities
and its challenging curriculum will be more college and/or career ready.
 
M B BellOUR INSTRUCTOR:
MAJ(R) Brad Bell began teaching JROTC at Horizon Science Academy in September of 2021 and retired from the Ohio National Guard shortly thereafter in December of 2021. Prior to joining our family at HSA, MAJ(R) Bell served as a cook, unit armorer, Human Resources Officer, and Training Officer while a member of both the Ohio National Guard and Active Duty Army. Building relationships with the kids and instilling a sense of community and accountability are the outcomes he enjoys most about the program.
JROTC current events

JROTC – 2025–2026 Program Highlights

The HSA Cleveland High JROTC Dragon Battalion continues to exemplify leadership, discipline, and service during the 2025–2026 school year.

 

This year, our JROTC Color Guard has proudly presented the National Colors at:

  • The Interstate Commission for Juveniles National Convention

  • The Public Sector Human Resources Association Annual Conference at the Cleveland Hilton Downtown

  • Local sporting events.
 

Earlier in the fall, cadets partnered with the Warrensville Heights JROTC program to provide Color Guard duties at the Warrensville Heights vs. Garfield football game.

 

In November, our Dragon Battalion also participated in the Veterans Day Parade, honoring those who have served our country and demonstrating our continued commitment to civic engagement.

Throughout the year, cadets regularly provide Color Guard services for conferences, sporting events, and community programs. These experiences strengthen skills such as discipline, attention to detail, teamwork, and leadership — qualities that contribute to success both inside and outside the classroom.

 

We are proud of the way our Dragon Battalion continues to serve as ambassadors for HSA Cleveland High and positive representatives of our community.