Eastmark High School Launches Navy JROTC Program Thanks To 2024 Override

Eastmark High School is gearing up to launch its brand-new Navy Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program, an initiative made possible through the passing of the 2024 override. Leading the charge is Jeffrey King, a retired Navy veteran with 23 years of service who brings over a decade of experience in JROTC instruction. “I'm excited to get going here next school year," states King. 

After retiring from the Navy, he transitioned into education and eventually took over a successful JROTC program in Sahuarita, Arizona. "I got to be good friends with the football coach," King recalled. "He hired me on as staff, from there, I just had a good time with the kids, seeing that I could help out the youth. Not only in football but in a leadership position and mentoring the kids."

King has had the privilege of guiding students from all walks of life, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the military, workforce, and higher education. "The reward is seeing the kids come back. They all keep in touch with me... It is a family environment."

The launch of the Navy JROTC program at Eastmark is a direct result of the 2024 override, which provided the necessary funding to bring this leadership and character-building opportunity to students. King emphasized the importance of community support in making the program a reality.

"It’s really important for the program. We emphasize community service," King said. "We have to be seen in the community that supported this initiative. The community will see us out there, so they’ll know that having their vote for the override will be really important to them personally, as a community, and to the kids."

The program will offer students a range of opportunities, from leadership development to competitions and physical training. "One of the biggest things I’ve taken from where I'm coming from is you have to instill a culture first. A culture of excellence," King explained. "You develop leadership, and the kids themselves are put in leadership positions.”

Students will also have the chance to participate in competitions such as Raiders, which involves team-based obstacle courses, marksmanship, and even academic challenges. "We have something to offer for everybody, regardless of what you like," King said. "We got something for you. So come out and give it a chance."

For King, the program is about more than just military preparation. "I don't push joining the service. We use military techniques to teach culture and leadership. You’re going to get leadership opportunities. You’re going to learn how to conduct yourself."

As Eastmark’s inaugural JROTC class prepares to make history, King is eager to build a strong foundation. "The challenge of coming in and starting something from the ground up and offering the kids here at Eastmark an opportunity to learn—I am excited. I can't wait to really jump in and get things going here at Eastmark."

If your student is interested in joining Eastmark’s Navy JROTC program, enroll today! Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on the program’s progress.