SAVE NJROTC AT MIDDLETOWN

I never really thought that I would have to write these words, but we need to fight to save our NJROTC program here at Middletown High School.  If you care about our program and want it to continue, please help us take prompt and effective action to stop the proposed elimination.  There are many things that we can all do, but probably the most important thing is to start with a clear understanding of the situation, so please read the following carefully:

• The elimination of ROTC is just a proposal.  The proposed elimination is obviously something that should be taken very seriously, but it is, at this stage, just a proposal that is part of a large cost saving measure that, in turn, is driven reduced revenue coming into the district.  Cost are going up and less money coming in from various sources.  Something must be done, but that something need not include the elimination as a program as valuable as NJROTC!
• Because the proposal is still being studied, we may be able to change minds, but we must act now.  A budget decision will be made on 7 April and, if we are lucky, by that time NJROTC will no longer be on the list of programs programs to be eliminated. 
• The cuts proposed amount to $10 million.  Our ROTC program costs the district less than about $200,000 per year--a small fraction of the $10 million that must be trimmed from the budget.  Surely an alternative to cutting the program can be found.
• For the $200,000 the program costs the district annually--a small expenditure compared to many others--the school gets the benefit of a widely respected leadership and citizenship program that has been developed over the last 50 years and that is currently used in over 600 schools nation-wide.  The JROTC program is widely regarded as a real success story and the opportunity to host the program is prized by most participating communities.  
• The Navy contributes to the program by reimbursing a significant portion of the costs, by certifying instructors, by providing an accredited curriculum, and by providing all the textbooks and uniforms free of cost.  There is no cost to the student and absolutely no military obligation.
• What's the real benefit?  For over twenty years at Middletown High School, the NJROTC program has touched the lives of literally hundreds of students.  It is easy to point out many superstars: we have had former cadets go on to be White House Fellows, to study at some of the best universities in the world, to attend the United States Naval Academy, and to serve in positions leadership in many fields of endeavor.  Equally as important are the many more students who are now rock solid citizens here in the Middletown community.  In each of this cases, our JROTC program played a significant part; in more than a few we made a critical difference.  Many former students will tell you quite frankly that they are where they are now because of the JROTC program.  Why be penny-wise and pound foolish by eliminating such a valuable program?
• What can you do?  
• Contact the Board of Education by email or letter and express your support.  Ask that they not approve the proposed elimination of JROTC.
• Tell your neighbors and friends and ask for their support.
• Show you support around the school and around town.
• Attend our action meeting (time and place to be determined, but we anticipate the meeting will be held the evening of Thursday, 24 March).
• Attend the next board of education meeting and be prepared to stand up and request that they do not eliminate JROTC at Middletown High School. 

We hope that we can count on your support.  If you have any questions, please contact us by email or phone.

More to follow!