Letter To the Editor: RE: Burlington NJROTC

To the Burlington-Edison Community,
I am writing on behalf of the students who have taken part in the NJROTC program at Burlington-Edison High School. I was part of the program all four years of high school, began in the leadership my sophomore year, and was the Commander of the program my senior year. Upon graduation, I had a GPA of 3.8, graduated in the top 20 of my class, was on the honor roll all, was a varsity swimmer, an active member in high school clubs and activities, and a member of the Armed Drill Team. That being said, there was one thing I was mocked for, by students and teachers on a regular basis – being in the NJROTC program. All four years of high school, I endured mocking and bullying for being a “rotc nazi.” In my high school career, there were numerous occasions for the administration and faculty to show their support of our program and not a single one ever did. When I went to other high schools for drill meets, there were posters and banners written by the ASB all over their schools supporting their programs. The ASB members, faculty, and administration of these schools were always present at drill meets to show their support of their program. Nothing like this ever happened while I was in school. Mr. Setterland, you stated that there was “a current low level of student interest” in the NJROTC program. I would like to pose a thought question to you: do you think there would be such a “low level of student interest” if the school faculty and administration offered even a fraction of the support that the football team gets to the NJROTC students?
I would like to end by saying a few more things in support of the program. I learned more about respect and presenting myself well than any other class or experience has taught me. Because the Senior Naval Science Instructor, Captain Bailey, knew I was ambitious and intelligent, he put my name in for consideration for the Young Leaders of America Conference and through that nomination, I went to Washington, D.C. twice. Once to learn how to be an effective leader in my nation and the second time, I was invited, and attended, the Presidential Inauguration.
I am truly sad that these opportunities will not be available to future students.

Bethany Shepler