This year, Pearl River Central Middle School introduced a Junior Cadet Corps program as an elective instead of the traditional physical education class.

The Middle School is among three schools in the state to include a program of this nature into its curriculum.

The cadet program aims to provide students with an opportunity to get hands-on experience in honing their leadership skills, learn to maintain a professional demeanor, and conduct themselves with discipline.

Additionally, the program seeks to focus on life skills regarding avoiding drugs, practicing personal nutrition, learning first aid and focusing on academics.

Master Sergeant Gabe Peterson is the program’s instructor, and brings with him experience from his days in the U.S Air Force. He says it the new program is an opportunity for each student to hone those skills, which will come in handy no matter what path they choose to pursue into adulthood.

Students in the program are required to watch 10 minutes of a news broadcast so they are aware of what is happening in the world.

Although few students enrolled in the program aspire to make a living in the military, many students find the course an opportunity to learn things they did not know before, such as how to build a fire.

Peterson said many of these students come from backgrounds where they haven’t had to chop wood and missed out on the fun of roasting marshmallows.

Being provided the chance to build their own fire and enjoy a roasted treat is definitely something the students look forward to, Peterson said. 

The JCC program is a crash course that can help them learn how to be a leader.

If you envision your child taking the lead in the future, or feel they need a boost in their self confidence, this course could be a good start.