Mar 11, 2024
Every few years, JROTC units nationwide undergo a rigorous evaluation known as the JROTC Program of Accreditation (JPA). This evaluation, mandated by the U.S. Army Cadet Command, serves as a benchmark for assessing the program’s adherence to standards and its overall effectiveness.
Recently, on March 7th, the Panther Battalion embarked on this pivotal journey. Students were tasked with showcasing their Continuous Improvement Program, highlighting their Service Learning Project, presenting their achievements through Cadet Portfolios, and demonstrating precision and unity through marching as a cohesive unit and Color Guard team.
In the face of this challenge, the Panther team rose to the occasion, exceeding expectations and reinforcing their status as an Honor Unit with Distinction. This prestigious designation, symbolized by the coveted Gold Star on their JROTC Uniforms, speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on their remarkable achievement, Col. Eric Keys expressed profound pride in the cadets’ unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit:
“I am very proud of our Cadets. Their hard-work, dedication and teamwork paid off with a highly successful showing. They set high standards for themselves and excelled at accomplishing their goals. ‘Hats Off to the Panther Battalion!’ Way to make us proud.”
While awaiting the official results, Mr. Burton, the 6th JROTC representative during the JPA, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the Panther Battalion, affirming their continued possession of the Gold star and their esteemed status as an Honor Unit with Distinction.
The Panther Battalion’s triumph serves as a testament to their indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Their success in the JROTC Program of Accreditation exemplifies their commitment to embodying the highest standards of leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
Feb 23, 2021
Kaitlyn Arceneaux is in her second year of the Woodlawn High School JROTC program. During her first year in the program, as Private First Class, Kaitlyn found that she truly enjoyed the JROTC program. She stood out in her LET group, and was promoted at the beginning of her sophomore year to Cadet Sergeant.
Later during her sophomore year, Cadet Sergeant Kaitlyn was chosen to represent the Woodlawn High School JROTC Department for the East Baton Rouge Parish District LET II competition.
“I was very excited when I found out that JROTC staff selected me as the LET II representative for Woodlawn High,” said Arceneaux. “There were several other qualified cadets that they could have selected, so I was surprised and honored to be selected.”
On February 11, 2021, Cadet Sergeant Kaitlyn Arceneaux competed with other cadets in the Baton Rouge District. She did an outstanding job and placed second in the competition.
“Kaitlyn represented Woodlawn High School very well and the JROTC staff is extremely proud of her,” commented Sergeant First Class (R) Jill Pearl. Kaitlyn has worked very hard and been a dedicated cadet in our program for the past two years. The staff looks forward to watching her grow as a leader and see what she accomplishes in the next two years.”
Outside of the JROTC program, Arceneaux has maintained a 4.5 GPA at Woodlawn High School. She is a two-year varsity letterman for the Lady Panther soccer team, and has recently joined the Lady Panther softball team. She plans to attend LSU after her time as a Panther, and hopes to one day become a veterinarian.
Dec 15, 2020
Congratulations to Cadet Captain Idaneth Garcia-Rodriguez, who earned accolades as the Top Leadership, Education and Training Level III Cadet in East Baton Rouge Parish. Cadet Garcia competed against and was triumphant over five other Cadets from JROTC programs throughout the East Baton Rouge Parish School System. Even more exciting is that this is Cadet Garcia’s second consecutive year winning Cadet of the Year.
Cadet Captain Garcia and Col. (R) Keys.
Cadet Captain Garcia-Rodriguez is a junior at Woodlawn High School and in her third year in the Woodlawn JROTC Program. She has a cumulative 4.41 Grade Point Average, plays violin in the WHS Orchestra, and is a Company Commander in the JROTC program.
After high school, her plans are to attend Louisiana State University and either major in chemical engineering or pursue a law degree, with a minor in music. While her life’s goal is to become a chemist, working on alternative fuels, she has also been intrigued with law and may consider pursuing a law degree.
Col. (R) Keys, Woodlawn High’s JROTC III & IV instructor, has nothing but praise for Cadet Captain Garcia.
“What an awesome accomplishment by Cadet Captain Garcia, especially to win the Cadet of the Year, two years running. Cadet Garcia is the type Cadet that any program would be proud to have. She’s bright, energetic, and willing to put in the hard work to be successful. We are extremely proud of her.”
Sep 28, 2016
Rebeca Aguilar ‘18
Tonight, Wednesday, September 28th, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Woodlawn JROTC is going to have a Family Night in which they will promote students from last year to their new positions.
Colonel Keys said, “This is [their] second year bringing back this Family Night event. Parents, friends, and even students can go to this event and support those students that are being promoted.” In order to attend, students should have let Colonel Keys know that they are attending and how many guests are attending so that Chef Oubre is able to prepare enough plates of food. This is not an obligatory meeting, but if students or family members want to come and support a JROTC student, they are welcome to do so.
When they are done announcing new positions, Colonel Keys is likely to talk about events that are coming up, including the military ball, JROTC competitions, etc. This is going to be a wonderful night not only for the Woodlawn JROTC staff who will be holding this event for their second time, but also for those students who are being promoted this year. This is a time to celebrate these students, which is why this event is so important.
