What It Means to Be an SFJROTC Cadet
Joining SFJROTC at Durango High School means becoming part of a student-led, team-driven program where cadets take on real leadership roles, develop discipline, and work together to achieve personal and unit goals. While the program includes classroom instruction, leadership training, and physical fitness, much of the learning happens through hands-on experience.
Cadets are not just students in a class; they are active participants in running the program. They manage daily operations, plan events, train for competitions, and mentor younger cadets. Along the way, they gain skills in leadership, teamwork, and responsibility that set them apart in college, careers, and beyond.
A Typical Week in SFJROTC
Every week brings a mix of classroom instruction, leadership training, team activities, and hands-on practice. While schedules may vary, cadets can expect the following structure:
Uniform Inspection & Professional Standards
- Cadets wear their official SFJROTC uniform on designated days.
- Uniform inspections teach attention to detail, responsibility, and professionalism.
- Cadets learn how to present themselves with confidence and discipline.
Physical Training (PT) Days
- Once a week, cadets engage in structured fitness training.
- Workouts focus on strength, endurance, and teamwork-based challenges.
- PT helps cadets prepare for fitness assessments and competition teams.
Team Training & Competitions
- Cadets participate in after-school team practices for Drill, CyberPatriot, StellarXplorers, and other competition groups.
- Leadership positions within these teams give cadets real-world responsibility in planning and execution.
- Competitions provide opportunities to represent Durango High School at regional and national events.
Community Service & School Involvement
- SFJROTC emphasizes service before self, and cadets regularly engage in volunteer projects in the community.
- Events range from school service projects to larger community outreach efforts.
- Participation strengthens team unity and teaches cadets the value of giving back.
Opportunities for Leadership & Involvement
One of the most unique aspects of SFJROTC is that cadets run the program. Instructors provide guidance, but cadets are responsible for leading teams, managing operations, and organizing events.
Leadership Positions Available to Cadets:
Core Commanders – Responsible for overall command and control of NV-941.
Squadron Commanders – Responsible for scheduling logistics and training of cadets.
Flight Commanders & Flight Sergeants – Lead and train their assigned group of cadets during their class period.
Drill & Special Teams Leaders – Manage practices and lead teams during games and competitions.
Competitive Teams & Special Programs
SFJROTC cadets have the chance to compete in regional and national competitions across multiple disciplines. These challenges test technical skills, teamwork, and discipline in high-stakes environments.
Some of the top competition teams include:
Drill Team – Precision competition drill teams that compete in multi-service competitions through regulation and exhibition marching routines.
CyberPatriot – A national cybersecurity competition focused on network defense.
StellarXplorers – A space system designed competition that challenges cadets to solve orbit planning, satellite component, and launch operations scenarios.
JLAB – A leadership and academic competition testing military history and problem-solving skills.
Color Guard – A ceremonial team performing in competitions, at school, and at public events.
Physical Fitness Team – A specialized fitness team that competes in athletic challenge competitions.
Beyond the Classroom: Corps Events & Traditions
SFJROTC is more than just training, competitions, and community service, it’s a tight-knit cadet corps with events and traditions that bring cadets together.
Time-Honored Traditions & Formal Events
- Veterans Day Parade: Cadets march in the Las Vegas Veterans Day Parade to honor those who have served.
- Military Ball: A formal gathering of approximately 2,000 cadets from JROTC units across the district.
- Change of Command Parade & Awards Ceremony: A major event where cadet leadership transitions, and outstanding cadets are recognized for their achievements.
- Dining-Out: A semi-formal dinner ceremony that fosters unity among cadets.
Corps Activities & Social Events
- Family Night: An introduction event at the start of the year where cadets and parents meet instructors and learn about the program.
- Halloween Party: A fun social gathering to build friendships outside of training.
- Sports Corps Nights: A chance for cadets to support Durango’s sports teams together.
- March for Cans & Food Drive: A friendly competition between flights to collect food for charity.
Physical Challenges & Memorial Events
- Z-Fit: A fitness challenge hosted by NV-941 that pushes cadets to their limits.
- Bataan Memorial Death March: A 15-mile memorial hike through Red Rock Conservation Area in honor of WWII veterans.
Recognition & Advancement Opportunities
Cadets who excel in SFJROTC have the opportunity to earn awards, promotions, and special recognition. Top cadets may receive:
Rank advancements based on performance, leadership, and involvement.
Annual awards for leadership, academics, and unit participation.
Scholarship opportunities for college ROTC programs.
