Der Blaue Kid in the San Francisco Veteran's Day Parade

Some well-meaning but misguided San Franciscans want to get rid of this:







JROTC has meant a lot to Der Blaue Kid, and means even more to those who actually do plan to go on to the military.



There is no recruiting allowed in JROTC, but San Franciscans want them out of the schools, regardless of the fact that this will hurt underprivileged kids the most, and to some, it is the first time in their lives that they find something to take pride in. Students broke down in tears at last year's hearing, begging the Board of Supervisors not to take this away from them. Tomorrow, the final hearing will be held on the fate of the JROTC in San Francisco public schools.

At least this little drill team from Oakland will still have a chance:

There wasn't enough enrollment to justify the expense. They allowed it a probationary period, but, despite the efforts of parents and the local papers, enrollment didn't increase.

I don't think I have a problem with the program. Schools need extra-curricular stuff that appeals to a wide range, since often it's what keeps some kids interested in school. Not everyone's into football, band, drama or student government.

Both of which are misguided, since San Francisco has laws prohibiting both recruiting in schools and discrimination based on sexual orientation.

I can easily see myself having been on the other side of the issue before I knew more about it, so I don't blame people for being against it, but I think it will be a sad day for SFUSD students if it goes.

edited for clarity