JROTC program being canceled at Sussex Tech

SUSSEX CO., Del. – The Sussex Technical School District confirms that its U.S. Army Junior ROTC program is being canceled.

School leaders say the district was informed about this last week, along with the retirement of two of its instructors. Officials tell 47 ABC they are still working to figure out all the logistics. Some parents have expressed concern saying this impacts countless students and changes their children’s plans for the future.

A parent named Shaneka Gibbs posted on Facebook saying,”Sussex Technical High School is being deceitful and sneaky…How dare you suddenly discontinue the ROTC program…How dare you disregard all of the hard work, time and dedication that these 150 students and parents have put in…You will face these parents and students and you will answer for the disservice you have done to these children.”

School officials want to stress that Sussex Tech did not make this decision and would be happy for the program, which is an elective course, to continue. “Our JROTC instructors have been familiar faces for many years, and have worked tirelessly and selflessly to bring Sussex Tech a great program. We are grateful for their service to our country and our school, and they will be missed.”

The Board of Education will be discussing this topic at its meeting on Monday.