JROTC cadets present the Colors in D.C.;
Bennett serves as speaker at National Conference
Waynesville JROTC cadets presented the Colors during the NAFIS (National Association of Federally Impacted Schools) Spring Conference on Monday, March 11, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
“I am so proud of how our JROTC Color Guard performed,” said Superintendent Hilary Bales. “Their flawless presentation was clearly a result of their hours of rehearsal and preparation. I hope they always remember this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when as high school students they presented the Colors in our nation’s Capital before the entire conference.”
The Waynesville High School cadets who participated are as follows:
· Cadet Lieutenant Colonel David Bennett
· Cadet Sergeant Major Nathaniel Copeland
· Cadet Major Avery Higdon
· Cadet Master Sergeant Joseph Mendiola
Following the presentation of the Colors, Bennett spoke about his experiences with JROTC and being a military child to the entire conference.
“Cadet Bennett was absolutely amazing,” said Superintendent Hilary Bales. “Far more than even the words he shared, David will be remembered for his resilience, sense of humor and leadership."
The Color Guard, along with Skylar Ringo, who is also a WHS JROTC cadet, addressed all military schools at the MISA (Military Impacted Schools Association) breakfast to talk about struggles military students face with transitions, and how schools can best support them.
“Afterward, I was approached by many superintendents complimenting me about how well our students presented themselves, and how clearly they were able to share their experiences,” Bales said. “Several even stated that our students were their favorite part of the conference! I really could not have been more proud. Our students are awe-inspiring!”
About NAFIS
The National Association of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS) represents the 1,100-plus federally impacted public school districts that together educate more than 10 million students across the nation. Federally impacted school districts are those located on or near nontaxable Federal property—including military installations; Indian Trust, Treaty and Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act lands; Federal low-income housing facilities; and national parks, national laboratories and other Federal buildings and property. These school districts, which are demographically and geographically diverse, receive Impact Aid.
About MISA
Military Impacted Schools Association (MISA) is a national organization of school superintendents whose mission is to serve school districts with a high concentration of military children. MISA is also part of the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS).
Formed in 1986, MISA works on funding (Impact Aid), legislation, partnerships and programs for military families on the move. Education is an important quality of life program for military families. MISA partners with the Department of Defense Education Activity, National Military Family Association, and military leaders to ensure that all military children are afforded a quality education. MISA works with local school districts and commanders to highlight best practices and partnerships that can further meet the needs of military families.