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. In 1964, Congress expanded the program to all military services and changed from active duty to shared support from the services and schools. JROTC’s mission, "To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens", is the guidepost for the program’s success.

JPA (JROTC Program Accreditation) is an inspection of the program that happens every four years. The Battalion is graded and inspected by 6th Brigade Evaluators. The Evaluators grade the battalion on presentation of a Continuous Improvement Plan, Service-Learning Project, Cadet Portfolios, and Drill and Ceremony.

The Puma Battalion goal is to get a 98% or higher in that year's inspection.

Since 2005, the U.S. Army JROTC program has been accredited as a Special Purpose Program by the national accrediting agency known as AdvancED (www.advanc-ed.org). JROTC curriculum provides equitable and challenging academic content and authentic learning experiences for all Cadets. All lessons are designed using a four part model to motivate the Cadet, allow the Cadet to learn new information, practice competency, and apply the competency to a real-life situation.

As an accredited Special Purpose Program, JROTC must adhere to AdvancED’s Standards of Quality. In 2015, JROTC implemented the JROTC Program Accreditation (JPA) evaluation program. The JPA provides a holistic review of Cadets’ and instructors’ performance with emphasis on documenting continuous improvement.

Student JROTC Website