The District's Career, Technical and Agricultural Education Department will host an Inaugural Mock Drill Competition on Saturday, November 5, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Central High School. Groups participating include Air Force JROTC units from Southwest and Westside High Schools, Army JROTC units from Central and Northeast High Schools, and the Marine Corps JROTC unit from Rutland High School.

The mock drill competitive event is an opportunity for the JROTC units to participate in authentic competitive events and receive feedback, which will ensure that the units have developed adequate leadership skills and are prepared for regional and state competitions. The event is also meant to build unity among the different JROTC units in the District.

"All JROTC cadets from all Bibb County JROTC Drill Teams will be better prepared for future competitions," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Bob DeWitt, Marine instructor for the Rutland High School's MCJROTC unit.

While each service has its own specific curriculum, they all have an ultimate goal of motivating students to become better citizens. JROTC combines classroom instruction and practical application with extracurricular activities. The curriculum teaches leadership, time management, and organizational procedures; the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of citizenship; and how our military serves our government. The JROTC programs help to develop the student cadet's sense of personal responsibility, build life skills, and provide leadership opportunities.

The events for the Mock Drill Competition include armed color guard – platoon basic, squad basic, platoon exhibition, squad exhibition, physical and training evaluation, and individual knockout. Awards will be given to the top seven cadets in the individual knockout event.

Central High School is located at 2155 Napier Avenue. The event will take place on the practice field. For more information, contact CTAE Supervisors Teresa Phillips at (478) 779-3047, or Dr. Cassandra Miller-Washington at (478) 779-3827.