Exploring Military High Schools near New York City

New Yorker here, wanting to explore the military route post-high school. If anyone could share their experiences with military high schools near NYC, that would be great! I'm particularly interested in learning about the courses, faculty, and student life.

While there aren't many traditional military high schools in New York City, there are several JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) programs within the city's public schools.

For example, Francis Lewis High School in Queens has one of the largest JROTC programs in the country. Students have the opportunity to join the program and participate in leadership development, physical fitness activities, and service projects. This program is known for its dedicated faculty and supportive community, creating a enriching environment for their cadets.

Also worth noting is Susan E. Wagner High School in Staten Island with one of the more recognized JROTC programs in the area. They offer a rigorous curriculum which intertwines academic work with military discipline.

One advantage of these schools is that you're not fully committing to a military track, but rather exploring it within a traditional school setting. This allows you to sample a variety of courses and extracurriculars beyond what's provided within the JROTC program.

Remember, each program has its unique style and variation in courses. You might want to reach out to an admissions officer or the head of the JROTC program at these schools to get a detailed overview. Visiting the schools might also give you a feel for student life and culture. Despite this, the general consensus from students who have participated in these programs is that they have gained valuable leadership skills and a strong sense of community, regardless of whether they go on to pursue a military career.