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Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps

Maj. Thom  Petzold

Maj. Thom Petzold

Advisor

Phone: 651-425-4487

MSgt Kathy Cotto

MSgt Kathy Cotto

AFJROTC Advisor

Phone: 651-425-4487

AFJROTC Description

The mission of AFJROTC is to build better citizens for America. To meet this goal, each year the curriculum and extracurricular activities focus on a mix of aeronautics and leadership activities in combination with school and community service.

What is AFJROTC

The purpose of AFJROTC at Woodbury HS is to teach aviation, citizenship/leadership, and physical fitness. Each year the curriculum focuses on various aspects of each topic.  We are NOT recruiters NOR does AFJROTC enrollment require you to enlist in the military after graduation.  You must enroll in AFJROTC class to particpate in the club activities.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

  • Place to belong and succeed in high school
  • Creates well rounded students
  • Confidence building for job, college, and scholarship interviews
  • Alternative to AVID
  • Self-image will improve, and they become role models for other students
  • Students will become educated and responsible citizens in their community
  • Looks great on job and college resumes as well as scholarship applications
  • Fun!

There are 4 different academic/leadership courses that are rotated every year. A student will never receive the same course during their high school career.  The 2021 – 2022 class will be broken down into three elements that are taught each week as follows:

1)  EXPLORATION OF SPACE (2 days per week):

In this course, students learn about astronomy and the exploration of space. We will get an in-depth study of the solar system including the moon, the planets, deep space, the latest advances in space technology and continuing challenges of space. We will look at manned spaceflight including issues that are critical to travel in the upper atmosphere as well as milestones in the exploration of space.

2)  LIFE SKILLS AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES (2 days per week):

The student will investigate the different paths to take after high school including how to apply for admission to college, vocational or technical school. The job search, as well as a résumé and the importance of good interviewing skills are also covered. Real life issues such as financial planning, understanding contracts, leases, wills, warranties, legal notices, and personal bills are covered.  Uniform wear is required one of these 2 days.  AFJROTC students are provided with uniforms at no cost. 

 3)  PHYSICAL FITNESS (1 day per week):

The student will learn the importance of teamwork as well as physical fitness as a lifestyle.  Calisthenics and a team sport/activity is played.  Physical fitness clothes are provided at no cost to students (except shoes).

Overall outcomes for the courses are to develop:

  • Patriotism and an understanding of their personal obligation to the US.
  • Habits of orderliness and precision
  • High degree of personal honor, self reliance and leadership
  • Knowledge of basic Air Force structure and traditions
  • Awareness of the community needs and potential solutions in meeting those needs

Field trips, base visits, C-130 flights, IFly, escape room, hands-on activities, banquets, drill competitions, physical fitness competitions, campouts, paintball, and leadership opportunities are some of the methods used to reach our course outcomes.  These activities provide a memorable way to enhance our program and allow students to exercise leadership skills in a safe environment.  Should you choose to enlist in the military after graduation, you may accrue enlistment benefits and receive college credit. 

Students may register for any or all trimesters in any order and receive 1 credit per completed trimester. The course codes are: ARS008, ARS009, ARS010, and there are no registration prerequisites for AFJROTC courses.  These courses are taught during the school day as well as zero hour.

133rd Air Lift Wing at MN Air National Guard

AFJROTC cadets take a ride in a C-130 Cargo Plane

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