The MacArthur H.S. Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is a co-ed leadership development and citizenship program promoting practical life skills and provides P.E. credit for graduation.  The mission of JROTC is to motivate young people to become better American citizens.  JROTC is NOT a military preparation program, is NOT associated with military recruiting, and involves NO military service obligation, although JROTC is a real benefit for those interested in pursuing a military career.  “Cardinal Battalion” Cadets have one of the most unique, exciting experiences in high school, including the opportunity to compete and travel at the local, state, and national level, gain community service hours, and earn valuable college scholarships.

JROTC is a co-curricular program as Cadets compete on teams and can earn a Varsity Letterman Jacket.

The following is an example of the JROTC teams and activities during periods of allowed “in-person” instruction: 

JROTC Co-ed Competitive Teams are:

• Academic Team
• Leadership Team
• Cyber Patriot Team (Computer Security)
• Marksmanship Team (Air Rifle)
• Color Guard
• Drill Team
• Physical Fitness & Raider Challenge Team

JROTC Activities:

• Summer Camps & Leadership Conferences
• Competitions in San Antonio
• State Fair of Texas Trip
• Raider Challenges in and out of state
• Washington DC Academic Competition
• MacArthur H.S. Football Games
• D/FW Area Weekend Drill/Skill Competitions
• Military Ball (Formal) at a local hotel
• Lock-in Socials & Movie Nights
• College Visits (In & Out of State)
• Presidential Library Visit / Educational Trips
• Civic Club Engagements/Sponsorships
• Community Service/Service Learning
• Veterans Day Events & Color Guard

NOTE: Cadets are encouraged to be well-rounded and participate in other school organizations as well.

Cadets earn P.E. credit for participation in JROTC and learn to be a leaders and responsible team members. Cadets learn Leadership, Citizenship and the fundamentals for success in life using an accredited curriculum including: Physical Fitness, Financial Planning, History, Health, College and Career Preparation, Study Skills, Communication Skills, Organizational Skills, Diversity Appreciation, Conflict Resolution, Decision-making, and Inter-personal Skills.  Cadets earn rank and hold positions responsibility, earn awards, and receive community service credit for school and community support. The JROTC cadre includes the Senior Army Instructor, a retired Army Colonel, and two Army Instructors, all retired Army Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. 

Like other MacArthur organizations, wearing a uniform with pride is required once per week as “dress for success”.  Other than purchase of a JROTC T-Shirt and uniform dry cleaning costs, Cadets incur no expenses to enter the program.   The uniforms, supplies, and equipment are issued to Cadets free of charge.

With parental permission, simply register for JROTC with your counselor. If you have any questions about JROTC, contact us at: 972-600-7282/7283/7280/7445 or e-mail: vfreeman@irvingisd.net.