Why Go Through High School Alone?

Join Our JROTC Family at Waukegan High School

High school is a journey—full of growth, challenges, and discovery. But you don’t have to face it alone. At Waukegan High School, we believe in the power of community, discipline, and leadership. That’s why we’re proud to offer the Waukegan Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC)—a program where students find purpose, develop lifelong skills, and build friendships that feel like family.

What is JROTC?

The Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) is a nationally recognized high school program that teaches leadership, citizenship, wellness, diversity, and character education. It’s a unique partnership between the U.S. Department of Defense and our school district, designed to empower students for life beyond high school.

Spoiler alert: You don’t have to join the military to be in JROTC. Most of our cadets go on to college or enter the workforce, armed with the skills to succeed.

“JROTC helps students prepare for life after high school, regardless if they join the military or not. It teaches students invaluable skills such as leadership, self-discipline, teamwork, time management, and focus.”

— Major Ron Painter, Senior Army Instructor

Why Choose JROTC?

You’ll gain real-world skills:

• Leadership

• Time Management

• Public Speaking

• Self-Discipline

• Career Readiness (Resumes & Interviews)

• Financial Literacy

• Teamwork & Communication

• Focus & Concentration
  
  

You’ll improve your academic success:

Source: U.S. Army JROTC Program

What Sets Waukegan JROTC Apart?

We have more after-school opportunities than any other program in the school! From fitness to fine arts to national competitions, there’s something for everyone:

• Air Rifle Marksmanship – Learn precision and discipline on the shooting range.

• Drum & Bugle Corps – March to your beat and perform at school events.

• Drill Team – Compete nationally in precision marching and ceremonial drills.

• Color Guard – Represent our nation with pride in formal presentations and parades.

• Raider Team – Test your physical and mental limits in obstacle courses and team competitions.

• JROTC Leadership & Academic Bowl (JLAB) – Sharpen your academic skills with national quiz competitions.

• CyberPatriot Team – Dive into the world of cybersecurity and prepare for tech careers.

Leadership, Community & Adventure

JROTC isn't just about marching or memorizing ranks—it’s about becoming your best self. Here are just a few of the unforgettable experiences we offer:

• Earn Physical Education/Elective Credit toward Graduation

• Military Ball – A formal night to celebrate your achievements

• Talent Show – Showcase your creativity and confidence

• Leadership Camp (JCLC) – A week of problem-solving and outdoor adventures

• Service Learning – Make a difference with community projects like visiting veterans or supporting food drives

• Veterans Day Parade – March with pride to honor those who’ve served
  
  

Did We Mention? It’s Free.

That’s right—uniforms, textbooks, and equipment are all provided by the U.S. Army. Plus, students who complete four years of JROTC may qualify for:

• College Scholarships (both ROTC and non-ROTC)

• Advanced Enlisted Rank & Pay (if they choose to join the military)

“If you want to get involved in a program, you should. Because nothing is holding you back, except yourself. JROTC has taught me leadership skills and time management. I plan to grow as a leader and take what I’m learning here and apply it to other areas of my life.”

— Karyl Lobo, C/LTC, Battalion Commander

How It Works

Students can join any time during high school—you don’t need to start as a freshman. There’s no obligation to join the military, and the program is designed primarily to grow students as responsible, capable citizens.

Years 1 & 2

• Physical Fitness

• Self-Discovery

• Community Service

• Drill & Ceremony

• Basic Leadership

• U.S. Government & Flag Etiquette
  
  

Years 3 & 4

• Resume & Job Interview Skills

• Personal Finance

• Public Speaking

• Military History

• Advanced Leadership Positions

Ready to Lead? Join the Waukegan JROTC Family Today!

Whether you want to build confidence, earn scholarships, grow as a leader, or just be part of something bigger—JROTC is your path to purpose.

Email Major Ron Painter at [email protected] to get started.
Or stop by the JROTC office at Waukegan High School to learn more.

You belong here. Let’s do high school together.

JROTC STAFF

Major Ronald Painter….…Department Chair and Senior Army Instructor
Command Sergeant Major Randy Thomas………………..Army Instructor
First Sergeant Eddic Franco……. ….…….........………….Army Instructor
Master Sergeant Allison Johnson….…….............………..Army Instructor
Master Sergeant Chad Bourne….….......……..…… ……..Army Instructor
Sergeant First Class Jeffrey Nasser .....................………Army Instructor