Santa Clarita, CA - Continuing a proud tradition of excellence, the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (AFJROTC) units in the William S. Hart Union High School District achieved the highest rating of “Exceeds Standards” during their official United States Air Force Unit Assessments in November 2026. Demonstrating exceptional discipline and cadet leadership, both programs earned perfect scores of 100, meeting all inspection standards for another consecutive year.
Unit CA-782nd, located at Valencia High School and guided by Major (Ret) Jose Bareng and Master Sergeant (Ret) Carlos Guevara, includes students from Valencia, Saugus, Academy of the Canyons, West Ranch, and Castaic high schools. Building upon its previous "Exceeds Standards" performance, Valencia's program elevated its rating to a perfect 100 score this year.
"We are incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our AFJROTC program at Valencia High School and the dedication, discipline, and leadership our cadets demonstrate each and every day,” said Valencia High School Principal Kullen Welch. “Their success is a direct reflection of the outstanding guidance of our instructors, Major Bareng and Master Sergeant Guevara, and the commitment of our students to representing Valencia High School and our community with excellence and pride.”
Unit CA-20063, based at Golden Valley High School under the instruction of Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Juan Gherardy and Master Sergeant (Ret) Winston Cagadas, serves cadets from Golden Valley, Hart, and Canyon high schools. The unit sustained its track record of flawless execution, repeating last year’s perfect score of 100.
"Earning the ‘Exceeds Standards’ rating and a perfect score is a tremendous testament to the discipline and heart of our Golden Valley AFJROTC cadets, who continue to set the gold standard under the exceptional mentorship of Lt Col Gherardy and MSgt Cagadas. Their commitment to stepping up as leaders and serving the Santa Clarita community is truly what makes this program shine," said Golden Valley High School Principal Jennifer Ambrose.
The district’s AFJROTC programs continue to instill leadership, personal integrity, and a sense of mission across all high schools. Through selfless service and active participation, cadets in both units consistently make a lasting positive impact on their student bodies and the Santa Clarita community.