Imagine the story of a vibrant educational program that has profoundly shaped the lives of countless students. This program is the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) at Brick Memorial High School in Brick Township, New Jersey. It embodies a vision of developing young leaders, instilling discipline, and offering a pathway to both personal and professional success for young individuals.

However, the future of this exemplary program is at risk. Due to a shortfall in funding and personnel, the AFJROTC program might be forced to close its doors at the conclusion of the 2026 school year. This could result in a significant loss not just to the students, but to the community at large that benefits from their service and leadership.

The regulations governing AFJROTC partnerships stipulate the need for two instructors to efficiently operate the program. Currently, Brick Memorial High School only has one instructor, jeopardizing the compliance and sustainability of the program. The funding for an additional instructor is crucial to maintain the program's operations and to continue the opportunities it provides to its cadets.

Let’s consider some facts: AFJROTC programs across the United States have demonstrated immense success in building young leaders who thrive in various career paths, including military and civilian. These programs boast high academic achievement rates and serve as excellent preparation for college or service academies.

The impact of shuttering the AFJROTC program would be detrimental not only to participating cadets who gain valuable life skills but also to the community that gains from the civic contributions of these young leaders. The skills taught—such as leadership, ethics, and civic responsibility—transcend the classroom and contribute to creating proactive, engaged citizens.

This petition seeks to urge the Brick Township Public Schools to allocate the necessary funding to hire a second instructor. This funding is not just an investment in the program but an investment in the future of our students and our community.

By signing this petition, you contribute to safeguarding a valuable educational initiative. We owe it to our students, our future leaders, to provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Let's act to secure the future of the AFJROTC at Brick Memorial High School and, by extension, the future of countless young minds.

Please sign this petition to express your support and ensure the continuation of this invaluable program.