Supervisor Alan Wong’s Resolution Supporting JROTC Students and Families Across San Francisco Passes Committee

SAN FRANCISCO – Today, Supervisor Alan Wong’s resolution recognizing the importance of the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) in San Francisco public schools and affirming support for its continued availability passed at the Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee.

The resolution highlights JROTC’s longstanding role in San Francisco schools and its impact on students through leadership development, discipline, mentorship, teamwork, civic responsibility, and community service. JROTC currently serves students across six San Francisco high schools.

Supervisor Alan Wong thanked Chair Matt Dorsey and Supervisor Danny Sauter for their support, as well as the students, instructors, and alumni who came forward to share firsthand testimony about how JROTC has shaped their lives.

“JROTC has been part of San Francisco public schools for generations, and for many students, it is much more than an elective,” said Supervisor Alan Wong. “It is a place where young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and find a sense of belonging. This is about making clear that we value programs that are working and ensuring students continue to have access to opportunities that help shape their future.”

Ret. Lt. Col. Doug Bullard, SFUSD JROTC Director of Army Instruction, spoke to the program’s history and the urgency of protecting it before staffing reductions threaten its future.

“JROTC is not just another elective. It is a leadership pipeline, a support system, and for many students, a life-changing opportunity,” said Ret. Lt. Col. Doug Bullard. “Once a program is closed, it may be permanently lost. That is why it is so important that we protect these programs now, not after they are already gone.”

Chris Chisholm, Senior Army Instructor at Galileo High School, shared how JROTC helps students find direction, confidence, and leadership opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.

“I have seen students who were once quiet and unsure of themselves grow into confident leaders who speak in front of large groups, mentor younger students, and take pride in serving their school community,” said Chris Chisholm. “JROTC gives students structure, mentorship, and a community that expects them to succeed. It strengthens not only the student, but the entire family.”

Celeste Murcia, a senior and four-year JROTC cadet at Lowell High School, described how the program transformed her mindset and helped her grow into a leader.

“One of the biggest things JROTC taught me is self-motivation,” said Celeste Murcia. “It helped me realize that I have control over my actions, my effort, and the direction of my life. Through leadership opportunities, I found my confidence, learned to trust my own judgment, and discovered what kind of leader I want to be. JROTC gave me confidence, purpose, discipline, and a clearer vision for my future.”

Former JROTC cadet and alumna Isabella Pham reflected on how the mentorship and community she found in JROTC continue to shape her long after graduation.

“For many students, JROTC becomes more than just a class. It becomes a foundation for personal growth,” said Isabella Pham. “It taught me discipline, responsibility, and confidence. It gave me mentorship, a sense of belonging, and leadership skills that I still carry with me today. The lessons I learned through JROTC continue to shape how I approach challenges, leadership, and service.”

Supervisor Alan Wong emphasized that the resolution is not only about preserving one program, but about recognizing the value of student opportunity and affirming support before programs are at risk.

“At its core, this resolution is about student opportunity,” Supervisor Alan Wongsaid. “We should not wait until a program is in immediate jeopardy before affirming its value. Our job is to recognize what is working, reflect the priorities of our communities, and make clear what opportunities we want to see remain available for students.”

The resolution will now advance to the full Board of Supervisors for consideration.