Minnesota Transitions School's (MTS) Leadership Academy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) is an island of stability and source of inspiration for future leaders. The program is part of the MTS district and is known by the acronym MTS-JROTC. According to Principal James Strait, MTS-JROTC seeks to provide transformational and self confidence building opportunities for youth by providing them with leadership training, and strong mentoring. The Cadets learn principles of leadership and conflict resolution with field trips to the Ft. Snelling and Camp Ihduhapi where physically and mentally challenging situations test leadership, decision making and communication skills. Cadets learn the benefits of teamwork and build self confidence. MTS Cadets join their senior ROTC counterparts at the University of Minnesota Armory for activities and mentoring on the benefits of attending college and what campus life is like. The Cadets also compete in several military skills competitions against other JROTC programs throughout the state where they are tested in events like drill and ceremony, physical training, academic bowls and orienteering. The overall goals of the JROTC are to promote citizenship, develop leadership & critical/creative thinking, teach effective communication, improve physical fitness, encourage drug free living, strengthen positive self-motivation, inform about military service, develop team spirit, inspire graduation and higher learning and the pursuit of meaningful careers particularly in the areas of science, technology, engineering, & mathematics. "The JROTC Program is one of the most sought after character development programs for young people. The curriculum teaches them how to work in teams, improve communication skills and made decisions. The results are clear in the increased attendance, test scores and graduation rates" said Neil Hetherington, Colonel (Ret), Infantry; Senior Army Instructor. The MTS JROTC has achieved Academic Yearly Progress for the 2009-10 school year. The Army awarded and designated them as a "Honor Unit with Distinction" (the highest award a JROTC Program can achieve) and they received the "Distinguished School Support" Award whereby the administration and faculty were recognized for exceptional and distinguished support for School Year 2009-10. The MTS JROTC program is the only such program in Hennepin County.

"JROTC at MTS assures the success of many of our students. The structure of JROTC helps student to learn better. Cadets learn respect and leadership. Cadets realize the importance of education." said Tony Scallon, MTS Superintendent. MTS Cadets regularly volunteer at the MN Veterans Home where they help transport wheelchair bound veterans, sit with them and assist them on a regular basis. The Cadets also volunteer to perform color guard at events and march in parades throughout the Twin Cities. They also participate in Junior Achievement. Nationwide, approximately 20% of cadets express interest in the military as a career option.