West Aurora High AFJROTC unit wins 'Excellent' rating

West Aurora Unit District 129 recently announced that West Aurora High School’s Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps instructors and cadets earned an overall unit assessment score of “Exceeds Standards” during their formal evaluation on Jan. 29, 2024.

In a letter to the school’s principal, Paul Lorkowski, regional director of AFJROTC, stated that this is the highest rating attainable.

The purpose of the evaluation was to provide feedback regarding the performance of West Aurora High School’s AFJROTC unit and to assess its compliance with Public Law, Department of Defense and Air Force Instructions, and the written agreement between the school and the Air Force.

Lorkowski’s letter praised AFJROTC instructors, Master Sgt. Scott D. Hellinger and Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Pierzchala, for creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment coupled with excellent community outreach.

Overall, the instructors have provided outstanding leadership in administering the cadet-centered citizenship program.

The evaluation further commended the 145 cadets’ and 27 cadet commanders’ exceptional performance and pride in leading and accomplishing their unit goals.

The summary stated that “West Aurora High School’s AFJROTC citizenship program is making a positive impact on the cadets, the school, and the surrounding community.”

“West Aurora High School's Air Force Junior ROTC has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, and their 'Exceeds Standards' rating is a testament to the exceptional dedication of our instructors and cadets,” stated Dr. Jeff Craig, superintendent of West Aurora Unit District 129. “This achievement reflects the high standards we uphold in our district, and we are immensely proud of the positive impact the AFJROTC citizenship program has on our students and community. It exemplifies the values of leadership, discipline, and community service that our schools instill in our students every day.”