Aviano Middle High School cadets earn top marks in Air Force Junior ROTC assessment
AVIANO, Italy — The Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) program at Aviano Middle High School has earned the highest possible rating of “Exceeds Standards” following its Unit Assessment conducted Feb. 23, 2026.
The “Exceeds Standards” rating is awarded to programs that demonstrate exceptional performance across leadership, curriculum instruction, community service, and cadet development. Aviano cadets demonstrated outstanding discipline, professionalism, and pride in achieving their unit’s goals, reflecting the program’s strong commitment to excellence.
Under the instructional guidance of Col. (Ret.) Scott Barberides and Senior Master Sgt. (Ret.) Kathleen Gonzales, the program impressed the evaluator with strong cadet leadership, active participation, and a clear culture of accountability. Cadets took ownership of their roles, showcasing confidence and teamwork throughout every phase of the assessment.
As part of the evaluation, cadets conducted formal inspections, performed drill and ceremony demonstrations, and delivered a detailed cadet-led briefing highlighting the unit’s mission, achievements, and service contributions. Their ability to communicate effectively and execute with precision demonstrated both their technical skills and leadership development.
Beyond the classroom, the program continues to emphasize service and community involvement, encouraging cadets to develop a sense of responsibility and commitment to others. These experiences help build well-rounded students who are prepared to lead both in school and beyond.
The AFJROTC program at Aviano Middle High School continues to make a lasting impact by fostering leadership, character, and a sense of purpose among its cadets. The recognition highlights not only the strength of the program but also the dedication of its instructors and students.
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Advancing Strategic Goal 2: Organizational Excellence, strengthening programs that develop leadership, accountability, and a culture of high performance across the organization.
