For new students & parents

Join NJROTC

Build confidence, make friends, learn to lead. Here's everything you need to get started.

How to enroll Parent FAQ

No military obligation.

“Enrollment in NJROTC does not mean you have to join the military.”

“There is NO REQUIREMENT to join the military for students who choose to participate in NJROTC. Participation may result in Advanced Promotions for those who enlist.”

Former WHS NJROTC web page · WHS 2026–27 Course Description Book

Why join

What cadets get

Leadership

A curriculum emphasizing citizenship, leadership development and United States maritime heritage, with real leadership roles as cadets advance.

Teams & camps

Air rifle competitions, leadership camps, STEM camps, Color Guard, SeaPerch, CyberPatriot, field trips and more.

Life after high school

Seniors are mentored whether they plan to join the job force, attend community college or a university, or enter the military, with help for ROTC scholarship and academy applications.

Expectations

Uniform & grooming

Proper and timely wearing of the uniform and participation in physical fitness are vital elements of being successful in NJROTC.

  • Males are required to shave daily and meet acceptable grooming standards during uniform inspections.
  • Females must wear their hair in accordance with U.S. Navy grooming standards while in uniform.
  • Cadets are issued uniforms, books and equipment. These remain the property of the government/school system and must be returned when a cadet leaves the program. Families are responsible for items lost, destroyed or damaged through carelessness or misuse (see the Permission Letter).
  • The course book also notes that students may be responsible for the cost of uniform. Ask Senior Chief for current details.

Courses

Your path

  1. 0093
    Naval Science IThe skills to become a successful cadet
  2. 0094
    Naval Science IILeadership principles and maritime history
  3. 0095
    Naval Science IIISeamanship, national security, running inspections
  4. 0096
    Naval Science IVPractical leadership and mentoring

Each course is year long for 1.0 credit. Naval Science I is open to grades 9–12. Full course descriptions.

Get started

How to enroll

  1. 01

    Ask questions

    Email Senior Chief Nathan Hernandez or talk with your school counselor.

  2. 02

    Choose the course

    Select 0093 Naval Science I when you pick your classes. See the WHS Course Description Book.

  3. 03

    Complete the forms

    Download, print and return the four NJROTC forms below.

NJROTC forms

Note from the Permission Letter: participation in other than general classroom activities will not be permitted where a student is determined to be uninsured.

Parents

Frequently asked questions

Does my student have to join the military?

No. Enrollment in NJROTC does not mean you have to join the military. Participation may result in Advanced Promotions for those who choose to enlist.

What does a typical week look like?

A typical school week includes classroom instruction, physical training (PT), uniform preparation and inspection. This varies based on cadet class schedules. Guest speakers, including veterans, frequently visit.

Is there a cost?

Uniforms, books and equipment are issued to cadets and must be returned when they leave the program. Families are responsible for items lost or damaged through carelessness or misuse. The course book notes students may be responsible for the cost of uniform, so please ask Senior Chief for current details.

Are there after-school activities?

Yes. Teams and programs include air rifle, Color Guard, drill, SeaPerch, CyberPatriot and more. Naval Science II expects some after-school participation, and Naval Science III and IV require it. Participation in teams requires enrollment in NJROTC as a course. See Teams.

Who do I contact?

Senior Chief Nathan Hernandez, Naval Science Instructor: Nathan.Hernandez@sdowmo.org. Washington High School: 636-231-2200.