This school year, our halls are filled with students, but one senior, Angelic Aponte, stands out from the crowd. Unlike her peers, Angelic spent her summer not on vacation, but at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, completing Basic Combat Training for the Army Reserve. Through the Split Training Option, a program allowing high school students to enlist their junior year and complete basic training before their senior year, Angelic got a head start on her career and future.
Principal Jones recently sat down with Angelic to discuss her unique experience.
"I wanted a head start on my career," Angelic said. "I've always had the mindset that if you start working early, then your future will be easier."
Leaving for boot camp on May 27 and returning on August 7, Angelic described the experience as "very tough." The hardest part for her was being away from her family, but she wouldn't change a thing. "The overall experience was very cool. I met a lot of great people that I've remained in contact with. I would do it again if I had to."
Angelic was a part of our school's JROTC program, and she credits it with helping her prepare for the rigors of boot camp. "I already knew all of the drill movements that were taught in basic training," she explained. "JROTC also taught me morals and leadership skills, which were also taught during basic training."
A December graduate, Angelic will finish her high school career in just a few months. When asked about her plans after graduation, she shared that she will work full-time until the graduation ceremony in May 2026. In the meantime, she will attend her required one weekend a month drill with her local Army Reserve unit. After graduation, Angelic plans to enlist in the Army full-time and study engineering.
Angelic's story is a powerful reminder that there are many paths to success after high school. We are incredibly proud of her dedication and can't wait to see all that she accomplishes.
Angelique and her younger brother after her graduation from basic training.
