A Citizen Development Program Focused on Leadership, Character, and Service
Southern Preparatory Academy’s JROTC program is designed to develop strong leaders, responsible citizens, and confident individuals. Rooted in leadership training and character development, this program offers students the opportunity to gain valuable life skills while preparing for college, careers, and beyond.
JROTC at Southern Prep is not a military recruitment program. While students gain valuable insight into military values and structure, there is no service requirement. However, for those considering a military career, JROTC provides a strong foundation and potential advancement opportunities. More importantly, the leadership, discipline, and teamwork skills gained through JROTC benefit students in any career path they choose.
Taking JROTC courses in high school provides students with a structured environment that emphasizes:
Learn discipline, teamwork, and responsibility through hands-on experiences.
Understand the rights, responsibilities, and privileges of being an American citizen.
Strengthen academic skills, enhance college applications, and explore career pathways in and outside the military.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle through fitness training and outdoor challenges.
Give back through service projects and develop a strong work ethic.
In partnership with Edward Bell Career Tech Center and the Tallapoosa County Board of Education, Southern Prep has opened our JROTC program to students at Reeltown, Horseshoe Bend, and Dadeville High Schools.
Students from these high schools who are interested in pursuing JROTC as a part of their high school career should reach out to their guidance counselor to register for JROTC at Southern Prep.
Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Gregory Caywood, a native of Greenup, Illinois, enlisted in the Army in 1995 and served for 27 years, retiring in 2022. A decorated veteran, he held leadership roles from platoon forward observer to Brigade CSM and deployed three times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. CSM Caywood holds a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College and two Master’s degrees—in International Relations from Webster University and Secondary Education Social Sciences from the University of West Alabama.
After retiring, he taught high school English and served as a substitute teacher before becoming the JROTC Senior Army Instructor at Southern Prep in 2024. His awards include the Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, six Meritorious Service Medals, and the Combat Action Badge.
Thank you for your interest in Southern Preparatory Academy. Located in Camp Hill, AL, Southern Prep educates students in grades 7-12.
Please complete the following form in order to receive our Admissions Packet via email. If you have a specific question or would like to arrange a campus tour, please call the Admissions Office at 256-790-9202 or 256-496-8864.
