A new pilot program aimed at enhancing military recruitment among North Dakota youth is gaining traction, as the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) collaborates with the Center for Distance Education. This initiative focuses on the military pillar of the Choice Ready program, which seeks to prepare high school students for various post-graduation paths, including military service.

The program, which launched in January, currently has three students enrolled, with hopes to expand to 50. The next phase will introduce an in-person module to facilitate face-to-face interactions, crucial for engaging students who may be considering military careers. The initiative aims to address the significant drop in eligible recruits, as only 23% of North Dakota's youth aged 17 to 24 qualify for military service due to various health and legal issues.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the importance of educating students about military opportunities, especially as the pool of potential recruits continues to shrink. The North Dakota National Guard has been proactive in capturing the majority of the limited market share, but with only 507 recruits from the state last year, there is a pressing need for innovative outreach strategies.

Concerns were raised about the coordination between DPI and the military program, with some committee members questioning whether sufficient groundwork had been laid for the pilot's success. However, the military representatives assured that they are leveraging insights from successful programs in other states, like Utah, to refine their approach.

Bismarck Public Schools have expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing the lack of Junior ROTC programs in the area. As the program develops, the focus will be on securing the necessary resources and personnel to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability. The collaboration aims not only to bolster military recruitment but also to provide students with valuable career options in a changing job landscape.