Savannah High JROTC Launches Area’s First NASP Archery Program

The School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High has made SCCPSS history with the launch of the district’s first National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) within its JROTC unit. The initiative introduces cadets to structured archery training as part of the JROTC experience, blending physical skill with mental focus.

The NASP program is a nationwide, in-school curriculum designed to teach archery fundamentals while reinforcing important life skills such as discipline, patience, and personal responsibility. The program brings a new level of opportunity, discipline, and engagement to students.

“Here at Savannah High, we are not just launching programs—we are creating pathways for purpose”, stated Shomari Gilford, Principal of The School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High. “The introduction of archery within our JROTC program is a testament to our commitment to developing disciplined, focused, and confident leaders. This is about more than a skill; it’s about shaping mindsets, expanding opportunities, and building a legacy of excellence that will impact our students for years to come.”

Within JROTC, archery also complements leadership development. Cadets learn to apply precision, accountability, and composure under pressure—skills that align closely with JROTC’s mission of developing responsible citizens and future leaders. “This program is about more than hitting a target,” SFC (Ret) Tinthy Harper, JROTC Archery Coach, emphasized. “It’s about building confidence, sharpening focus, and giving cadets another avenue to succeed both in and out of the classroom.”

Before launching the program, instructors completed specialized certification to ensure proper safety and training standards. NASP maintains a strong safety record and emphasizes consistent instruction methods across all participating schools.

The addition of archery is expected to increase student engagement and broaden participation in school activities. Nationally, studies show that students involved in NASP report improved focus, stronger connections to their school, and increased interest in other outdoor and team-based activities.

Savannah High instructors say the program is already generating excitement among cadets, many of whom are experiencing archery for the first time. Plans are underway to form a competitive team that will participate in regional and state NASP tournaments in the near future.

With the successful rollout of the program, The School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High School JROTC is positioning itself as a leader in innovative student development, using archery not just as a sport, but as a tool to inspire growth, discipline, and excellence.

SFC (Ret) Harper noted, “This is just the beginning. We’re building something that will impact cadets for years to come.”