Mars students attend P-R's JROTC classes
PINE TWP, Allegheny County — Every morning, 19 students from Mars High School take a 10-minute bus ride to Pine-Richland High School for Air Force Maj. Michael Morrison's first period Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program class, where they're learning about the importance of personal integrity along with aerospace and leadership studies.
This is the first year that students from Mars have had a chance to participate in the JROTC program.
“Our overall mission is to build better citizens. We teach them to work with others and, more importantly, to get out of it our core values, which are integrity, service before self, and excellence in all you do,” Morrison said in a recent interview.
The students — 102 in all — learn how to conduct themselves personally and professionally, with an emphasis placed on integrity, responsibility and attention to detail. Students also learn the science and machinations of Air Force vehicles, science of weather and other studies important to the Air Force.
“This year, we're in the science of flight and (will) learn how airplanes fly and why they fly,” Morrison said. “(They're also) learning communication, working with others and what all is expected of a good leader.”
Students are required to do a minimum of two hours of community service per grade period, although the class aspires to do much more.
Several students said they hope one day to join the military and are building the skills and knowledge they'll need when they're old enough to do so.
Others said they hope to develop professional and leadership skills as they prepare for life after high school.
Morrison said only a small percentage of students in JROTC programs nationwide end up in the military. The main goal is to develop better citizens and capable students.
“Our honor code is don't lie, steal or cheat and don't tolerate those (who) do,” Morrison said.
Outside the classroom, students said the program has helped them to feel more confident and disciplined, and has given them a better understanding of how to operate as a leader in groups and organizations in which they are involved.
Gracie Patrick, a senior at Mars, said the JROTC program has helped her in her role as drum major in the high school band.
“This class has helped me inspire students in a better way,” she said.
JROTC students also can participate in extracurricular activities, including drill competitions and a program known as Raiders, in which students develop leadership and professional skills, such as résumé building. Around 25 students are currently involved in Raiders.
Morrison said when students join the program, one of the first things he tries to impress on them is putting others first.
This has led, he said, to a good rapport between students and instructors, and helped foster a more communal atmosphere than your average class.
Rebecca Neiser, a junior at Mars, said she wasn't sure if she wanted to join the program at first, but now finds it to be one of the most supportive classes she is enrolled in.
“You feel like you're included,” she said. “You don't get that in any other class you take. It's more supportive.”
Since the merger in September, Morrison said the Mars students have proven to be a valuable addition to the program.
“It's been a wonderful experience,” he said. “Mars has definitely brought a positive vibe here at Pine-Richland.”
