Check out our podcast! Click here to listen. We had the honor of meeting two awesome MCJROTC instructors, Lt. Col Chris Gaitens, Sgt. Maj. Scott Cauley, and cadet Captain Natalie Sherlock who told us all about their Marine Corps JROTC program. They explained how the program helps students develop leadership skills, discipline, teamwork, and physical fitness. They also shared how the program prepares students for their future, whether they choose to join the military or pursue a civilian career and life. We were so impressed by their passion and dedication to their students and the Marine Corps values. We learned a lot from them, and we are so grateful for this opportunity to include them in our podcast family. Thank you, LtCol Gaitens, Sgt.Maj. Cauley, and cadet Captain Natalie Sherlock for your service and for inspiring us and your students!
Marine JROTC
Course Code: 7913, 7916, 7918, 7919
Co-op: Not available
Duration: 36 weeks
Suggested Grade Levels: 9–12
Prerequisites: None
Offered at Hermitage, Highland Springs, and J.R. Tucker High Schools
The Marine Corps JROTC course is based on Marine Corps requirements and led by active-duty Marine Corps officers. The program can motivate students to learn, foster a disciplined and constructive learning environment, (and) instill essential skills like time organization, responsibility, goal setting, and teamwork.
Students are introduced to the JROTC curriculum, and basic U.S. citizenship rights and responsibilities are established and reinforced. Students learn leadership, history, communication techniques, disciplined study habits, management skills, first aid, drug abuse prevention, map reading, physical fitness, and workplace readiness skills. Military customs and courtesies, proper uniform wear, and personal appearance guidelines are followed within the leadership lab, drill, and military ceremonies.
Published: November 29, 2023. Henrico CTE Now: MCJROTC LtCol Chris Gaitens, and Sgt.Maj. Cauley, Season 5, Episode 19.
Lt. Col Chris Gaitens, , Cadet Captain Natalie Sherlock, and Sgt. Maj. Scott Cauley