Its focus is reflected in its mission statement, "To motivate young people to be better citizens." It prepares high school students for responsible leadership roles while making them aware of their rights, responsibilities, and privileges as American citizens. 

The program is a stimulus for promoting graduation from high school, and it provides instruction and rewarding opportunities that will benefit the student, community, and nation. 

Course Scope: This Program of Instruction (POI) focuses on the development of better citizens through the instruction of skills in leadership, citizenship, life success, geography, and wellness, in a structured interactive environment. 

The JROTC program is a cooperative effort on the part of the Army and the host institution to provide secondary school students with opportunities for total development. The flexibility of the program allows it to bear the scrutiny of professional educators and to meet the needs of the community. Satisfactory completion of the program can lead to advanced placement credit in the Senior ROTC program or advanced rank in the Armed Forces. Some of the course has been reviewed and college credit is awarded to cadets upon completion of the specified requirements. 

The JROTC program is one of the Army's contributions to assisting America's youth to become better citizens. The program produces successful students and productive adults, while fostering in each school a more constructive and disciplined learning environment. This program makes substantial contributions to many communities and ultimately to the nation's future. It is the centerpiece of the Department of Defense's commitment to America's Promise for Youth through its emphasis on community service and teen anti-drug efforts. 

• Appreciate the ethical values and principles that underlie good citizenship. 
• Develop leadership potential, while living and working cooperatively with others. 
• Be able to think logically and to communicate effectively with others, both orally and in writing. 
• Appreciate the importance of physical fitness in maintaining good health.
• Understand the importance of high school graduation for a successful future, and learn about college and other advanced educations and employment opportunities.
• Develop mental management abilities. 
• Become familiar with military history as it relates to America's culture, and understand the history, purpose, and structure of the military services. 
• Develop the skills necessary to work effectively as a member of a team.