Laredo Independent School District recognized three JROTC students for their hard work during the JROTC Honorable Cadet Ceremony at Cigarroa High School.
Briana Gonzalez of Nixon High School, Carlos Andrade of Martin High School, and Alisandra Alfaro of Cigarroa High School were named LISD’s Honorable Cadets for their qualities and leadership skills as cadets who demonstrate outstanding capabilities as active members of their community through service, self-discipline, responsibility, and respect. The recognition was conducted by LISD’s ROTC Program and the LISD College, Career and Military Readiness Department.
LISD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Roger Garcia, and Cigarroa High School Principal Armando Molina congratulated and addressed the cadets on the importance of leadership, citizenship, and teamwork. Cigarroa High School Social Studies teacher, Sgt. Ricardo Segovia, who was the guest speaker, spoke on the importance of creating and motivating better citizenship.
Briana Gonzalez is a junior at Nixon High School and is ranked as Cadet Major for the Mustang JROTC. Briana credits her experience with JROTC with shaping herself into a confident, compassionate, and purpose-driven individual. Awards Day is an unforgettable experience for Briana as she was able to witness her fellow cadets and her growth within the JROTC program. Briana is a member of the BIPS Early College Academy, National Honor Society, Soccer, and President of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. Briana plans to attend college, join their ROTC program and become a Border Patrol agent. She aspires to serve her country and community with integrity, honor, and dedication, making a significant difference in the lives of citizens and upholding the values of justice, security, and freedom.
Andrade is a senior at Martin High School and a Cadet Command Sergeant Major for the Tiger JROTC. Carlos joined the JROTC program to learn about the US Army. He believes JROTC has taught him how to become a better citizen and made him a better person. Furthermore, the JROTC program has improved his leadership, decision-making, communication, and problem-solving skills. His most memorable experience in JROTC is participating in the JROTC Summer JCLC Summer Camp. Furthermore, Carlos is also a member of the Spanish Club and National Honor Society. After graduation, he aims to enlist in the U.S. Army.
Alfaro is a junior at Cigarroa High School and is ranked as a Cadet Captain for the Toro JROTC. Alisandra credits JROTC with helping her become physically stronger and an analytical thinker. Her most memorable experiences with the JROTC program are the Raider Competitions. She is a member of the Battalion’s Color Guard and Honor Guard in addition to serving as the Public Affairs Officer. Alisandra is a member of the Toro Swim Team, UIL Congress Debate, and Sabas Perez Early College. Alfaro plans to attend TAMIU pursuing a degree in finance and join their ROTC program. Alisandra hopes to have Sergeant First Class Carlos Martinez and Staff Sergeant Gilbert Gonzalez salute her and call her “mam.”
Alfaro believes its extremely important for the cadets to get recognized. “It feels amazing. All my hard work and dedication I have put in since I was a freshman has paid off, ” said Alfaro.
“LISD created this initiative to recognize JROTC Cadets who are leaders not only in their squad/campus, but in their community as well,” said Rogelio Garcia, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. “They are an evident example of the JROTC mission, “To Motivate Young People to be Better Citizens.”
“Being in the JROTC Program I have gained new skills and overall has made me a better citizen, which is our mission,” said Alfaro. “I feel that being in ROTC has got my confidence up and will help me in the future since I want to join the Army and it will give me a higher rank.”
The Cigarroa High School JROTC presented the colors, The Cigarroa High School Orchestra performed the National Anthem and CHS JROTC student Alisandra Alfaro led the Pledge of Allegiance. Guests enjoyed lunch which was prepared by the Cigarroa High School Culinary Arts students.
Cadets from LISD’s three JROTC Programs will be recognized every nine weeks. To be considered an Honorable Cadet, the student must submit a completed application with their information, resume, two letters of recommendation (non-JROTC Instructor) one recommendation letter from JROTC Instructor, essay, and cadet challenge score.
Cadets can get applications from the JROTC Instructors and counselors and must submit completed applications to their counselors.
For more information, please contact LISD College, Career and Military Readiness Coordinators, Mayra Garcia at 956-273-1863.