What defines a cadet in the JROTC program?

A cadet in the JROTC program is specifically defined as a high school student who is enrolled in JROTC. This distinction is important because it highlights the program's foundational goal of integrating leadership training, citizenship development, and personal responsibility within the framework of the high school educational setting.

Being a cadet involves active participation in the JROTC curriculum, which includes training in military skills, teamwork, discipline, and community service. Therefore, simply being a student leader or a member of a military academy does not encompass the core definition of what a cadet is in this context. Additionally, instructors, while integral to the program, are not considered cadets, as they hold a different role and responsibility within the JROTC structure. This clear distinction helps define the purpose and objectives of the program as they relate to the students involved.