• Military Readiness

    Essential Question: How can I demonstrate my military readiness?

    Brad Gould (2018) wrote an article about ten attributes the military seeks when recruiting.  Physical fitness, responsibility, and personal drive certainly made the list. However, he also points out that potential recruits need communication skills and intellect. Students in Birdville ISD can build these attributes through CTE courses. Students are encouraged to take high school classes in the Engineering pathway.  Students at BCTAL can learn about robotics, rocketry, and even earn the FAA Drone Flight certification. These specialized skills are in high demand and may also be financially rewarded. Gould writes, “With some branches now experiencing shortages of recruits with technical abilities, it’s likely you can get even better educational and monetary perks if you enter the military with [technical experience].” In addition, CTE students can join student organizations for opportunities in leadership, collaboration, and demonstrating communication skills. Further, students can enroll in JROTC courses designed to teach leadership, responsibility, and self-confidence. Taking a JROTC course does not mean you must join the military, but it can allow you to work alongside retired service members who can guide you and answer questions.

    Â鶹¹ÙÍø students can demonstrate military readiness in a variety of ways. Please start exploring below.

     

  • Military Readiness

Military Readiness - ASVAB

  • ASVAB: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is available to students in grades 10-12. It measures aptitudes and abilities and relates them to specific occupations in civilian and military life. Students are strongly encouraged to take this test to help them make wise career choices. Your scores in four critical areas -- Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, and Mathematics Knowledge -- count towards your Armed Forces Qualifying Test (AFQT) score. The AFQT score determines whether you're qualified to enlist in the U.S. military. See your counselor for test dates and preparation ideas. 

Military Readiness Resources

  • JROTC

    Birdville ISD has partnered with the United States Army to provide JROTC programming. The programs focus on:

    • Leadership
    • Character
    • Community Service
    • Citizenship
    • Health and Physical Fitness

     

    Joining the military is not a goal for JROTC participants, as only 20% of JROTC participants enter the military upon graduation. There is no military service obligation for those who participate in JROTC.  JROTC is a program that helps teach students life skills. It develops students' leadership skills and builds confidence in team situations. JROTC offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including Color Guard, Physical Training, Robotics, Archery, Rifle Team, and Academics. Participation in JROTC offers students the opportunity to compete for college scholarships, attend a team-building summer camp, and join teams that earn letterman jackets through off-campus competitions. 

     

    Click to get more information about JROTC.  

    Military Recruiters from all areas of the armed forces visit our schools during lunches and special events (like College Night at BCTAL). Visit your counselor to learn more.