Community Education

Peninsula High School’s TideHawks earn official recognition, funding from Navy

Peninsula School District’s NJROTC program, based at Peninsula High School, earned official recognition by the Navy, the district announced Thursday.

The TideHawks NJROTC unit, established three years ago, were until the recent advancement officially a Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) unit.

The Navy makes the NNDCC program available to qualifying secondary schools. Cadets follow the curriculum of the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC). The biggest difference is that NNDCC is primarily funded by host schools.

Darrell Hood, Lt. Cdr., USN (Ret), conducts drills with cadets in Peninsula School District’s NJROTC/NNDCC program in 2022 at Peninsula High School. Photo by Christina T. Henry Christina T Henry / Gig Harbor Now

Navy to pay for instructors, uniforms and more

The TideHawks’ promotion to full NJROTC status marks a significant milestone in the program’s history. The recognition comes with full funding and substantial support from the Navy.

The Navy will provide the TideHawks NJROTC unit with partial reimbursement for two instructor salaries, uniform support and additional financial aid.

“The recognition of the TideHawks NJROTC as a fully funded unit is not just a victory for Peninsula High School, but for our entire community,” said Superintendent Krestin Bahr. “This achievement underscores our commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities that inspire and empower every student.”

The TideHawks received the honor following a recommendation from NJROTC Program representative Cmdr. Vincent Quidachay, who cited the unit’s “highly successful operation” as a key factor in the decision.

‘Exceptional success’

Under the leadership of Command Master Chief Robert Stockton, the TideHawks have flourished, with student cadets achieving success in leadership and naval science education.

A cadet in Peninsula School District’s NJROTC/NNDCC program is photographed on picture day in 2022 at Peninsula High School. Christina T Henry / Gig Harbor Now

“The transition from an NNDCC to a fully funded NJROTC unit reflects the exceptional success and operational excellence demonstrated by the TideHawks,” the district stated in a news release. “This new funding will further empower the unit to continue its mission of preparing students for leadership roles in their future careers and fostering a commitment to community service.”

Peninsula School District expressed gratitude to the Navy for its support and to Quidachay for his endorsement. The district also commended “the hardworking cadets and their leaders for their dedication and excellence that have significantly contributed to this prestigious recognition.”