HAZLETON, Pa. — It's not your usual classroom inside Hazleton Area High School, and neither is the instructor. Col. Ron Humphrey served 34 years in the Army and Army National Guard.
"When I retired just recently from the Army, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do. I decided to take a chance on this and I'm extremely happy that I did," Col. Humphrey said.
Now he's teaching the next generation of recruits through the district's new Junior ROTC program.
"When that many people are interested in serving our country, I need to make sure they understand how much a privilege that is, but also how good it is."
It's the first year the program is in place, set up through the United States Army.
The 50 spots filled up quickly.
"We didn't expect there to be so much interest in our female students, but they are. It's 50/50, and we have a waiting list for enrollment," said Robert Mehalick, Hazleton Area's assistant superintendent.
"We're very synchronized when it comes to drill and that topic. Females, honestly, we're really good at this," said sophomore Camila Santana.
The program gets the students away from the books and gives them the keys to success, from uniforms to leadership.
"Good for our country, good for society, good for our country and our region. There are many pathways to success, and here in Hazleton, they stress all of them," Col. Humphrey said.
JROTC students who enter the military will get an increase in their rank and in their pay.
Senior Gerald Henderson hopes to enter aviation mechanics or military intelligence.
"Take us out of the books, teach us what we need to know. I'm not good with books, so that helps me out very well. Once we're done learning everything else, he just teaches us how to be better," Henderson said.
For those who aren't looking to enlist, it gives them the skill set to be better students and citizens.
"I've learned so much new things and skills, and how to help in the community. And you know, Colonel does his best for me, too," Santana said.
Hazleton Area is looking to expand on its success. For the next school year, the district will open the program to 120 students.