Emmett J. Conrad High School JROTC cadets are returning to Washington, D.C. to compete in the JROTC Leadership & Academic Bowl.
“It feels good knowing that the team and I did it once and twice in both branches of JLAB,” said Kyan H. “This is a first-time accomplishment for our school and the district.”
Kyan, along with his teammates, Bryan R., Angel C., and Jordan P. are on their way to establishing a legacy of excellence for Dallas ISD JROTC cadets.
“Recognition at a national level brings pride to our program and inspires future cadets to strive for success. It showcases the strength of Dallas ISD’s JROTC programs and highlights the impact of leadership education in preparing students for success beyond high school,” said La Daryl Franklin, JROTC director for Dallas ISD.
Last year, Conrad made history as the only school in Dallas ISD to make it to the national competition. Now, they are the only school in Dallas ISD history to represent the district on the national stage twice.
“This is a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about our program’s dedication, discipline, and leadership,” said Command Sergeant Major Leon Johnson, who is the senior army instructor at Conrad. “This milestone is not just a testament to the hard work of our cadets but also reflects the strength of our instructors, school support, and the commitment of the Conrad community.”
To qualify for JLAB, the cadets participated in two rounds of online competition, which tested their knowledge on subjects like math, science, language arts, current events, and leadership. They will take their skills to the next level by competing among the best JROTC teams in the country in June.
“Knowing that Dallas ISD and Conrad are being represented on the national stage of JROTC excellence is both an honor and a reflection of the hard work and dedication put in by our students and instructors, it shows the strength and potential of our program and the talent within our school,” said Benjamin Carrion, assistant principal at Conrad.
Kyan, Angel, and Jordan participated in JLAB last year. They say the biggest difference between the two competitions is this year’s focus on STEM, and are doing all they can to be prepared for Washington, D.C.
“We are using many resources, and midterms are coming up around the corner,” Jordan said. “The preparation for our courses and our current classwork also helps transfer over for the competition.”
Bryan is new to the JLAB competition this year. He said he is preparing by keeping up with his studies and practicing as much as possible.
“I am excited and very proud of myself for getting to the level of being able to compete and go to the national championship,” he said. “I can’t wait to experience all the fantastic memories going to DC. This is something that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Participating in a national JROTC competition is one thing, but maintaining that trajectory is another. This is what makes Conrad’s feat so remarkable, Franklin said.
“Competing on a national stage once is an incredible feat, but returning for a second time demonstrates consistency, resilience, and a culture of excellence that continues to grow,” he said.
As the cadets get ready for their trip to Washington, D.C., they recognize their role as models for fellow JROTC students throughout Dallas ISD.
“I am proud of myself and our group for accomplishing this for the second time two years in a row,” Angel said. “And I hope that I inspire other cadets who will soon take our spots to go to compete at the national level.”
Bryan agreed.
“I hope this inspires students to push and become the best they can, and help them see that hard work pays off if you commit and put in the time and effort,” he said.
For Carrion, the cadets’ will impact students across Dallas ISD because theirs is a story of dedication and perseverance.
“I am incredibly proud and excited of everything we have already accomplished, and even more thrilled about the impact we are about to make,” he said. “This journey has been one of growth, dedication, and unity, and it’s just the beginning. The opportunities ahead of us are boundless, and I can’t wait to see the positive difference we will continue to create together as we move forward.”
It is also proof that anything is possible, Franklin said.
“The cadets in our program set a standard for excellence that motivates others to push themselves, aim higher, and believe in their potential. Their success reinforces the idea that JROTC is not just about competition—it’s about building future leaders who embody the values of service, responsibility, and integrity,” he said. “I have no doubt that this momentum will continue to elevate Conrad’s program and the JROTC programs across the district, encouraging more cadets to challenge themselves and strive for greatness.”
