Parents seek support in sending NJROTC cadets to nationals

Editor's note: This corrects errors in a previous story about the efforts to raise funds for the NJROTC Battalion at Paloma Valley High School. Master Sergeant Frank Puebla and the school are not involved in this particular fundraising effort. The state Education Code prohibits school districts from paying for out-of-state field trips, according to principal Don Williamson. Other fundraising efforts may be pursued. The Go Fund Me page referred to was created solely by the NJROTC "Valuable Parents" group."

Cadets from Paloma Valley High School’s Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps program are seeking community support. On Feb. 4, the Wildcat Battalion competed in the state drill, fitness, and academic meet. Finishing in third place, PVHS earned an invitation to compete at the national level in Pensacola, Florida April 7-8.

Members of the NJROTC "Valuable Parents" group have created a Go Fund Me page to help them raise the estimated $900 per cadet needed for the trip. The goal is to send 50 cadets to nationals, according to Jennifer Beckley Sides, a member of the parent support group.

Paloma Valley High School’s NJROTC program has been in existence since 2002. The NJROTC curriculum emphasizes citizenship and leadership development. Classroom instruction is augmented throughout the year by community service activities, drill competition, field meets, marksmanship and other military training, and visits to naval activities.

If you are willing to donate to this cause, visit the group's fundraiser website:

https://www.gofundme.com/motivated-pvhs-njrotc-cadets