TROY – The Lincoln County R-III School District will be launching an Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program at Troy Buchanan High School (TBHS) this fall.

This marks an exciting new opportunity for TBHS students, who will now have access to a nationally recognized leadership development program that emphasizes citizenship, service, and personal responsibility.

“Thanks to our voters, TBHS will have the perfect space for this program to flourish in the multipurpose gymnasium, which the passage of April’s Proposition KIDS will fund,” Superintendent Matt Fredrickson said.

Established in 1916, the Army JROTC is one of the oldest and most respected youth leadership programs in the country. Today, more than 1,700 high schools nationwide offer JROTC programs, which are designed to motivate young people to become better citizens.

While the program is sponsored by the U.S. Army, participation in JROTC does not require students to join the military.

“We are always looking for ways to provide our students with meaningful, real-world, exemplary learning experiences that help them grow as individuals and leaders,” Frederickson said. “The Army JROTC program is a natural fit for our district’s mission and values.”

Earlier this school year, TBHS conducted a student interest survey to evaluate potential support for a JROTC program. Results showed that more than 25% of student survey participants expressed interest in learning more about or joining the program — a strong signal that the program will be a valuable addition to the school.

Benefits of participating in JROTC include:

• Development of leadership and communication skills;
• Emphasis on teamwork, self-discipline, and responsibility;
• Community service involvement;
• Access to scholarships and career exploration resources.

The program will be led by certified retired military instructors and will include both classroom instruction and hands-on activities, including drill, physical fitness and civic engagement projects.

The District is currently looking for qualified retired military instructors. To find out more about the opening and to apply, visit www.troy.k12.mo.us/apply.

TBHS Principal Brian Brown expressed enthusiasm about the launch.

“This is more than a program—it’s an investment in our students’ futures. Whether a student plans to pursue college, a career, or military service, JROTC builds skills that last a lifetime,” he said.

Enrollment information and program details can be obtained through the high school counselors’ office.