CHANCE TO LEARN — Steubenville High School Assistant Principal Aaron Newman will take part in the Navy’s Educator Orientation Visit Monday through Wednesday in Jacksonville, Fla. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Steubenville High School Assistant Principal Aaron Newman is getting a first-hand look at military life as he attends the Navy’s Educator Orientation Visit.

Newman will head to Jacksonville, Fla., Monday through Wednesday with six other Ohio educators to tour in-port Navy commands and installations as part of the recruiting command program and learn all about being in the Armed Forces. Participants may include state and local school officials and centers of influence, such as superintendents, school board presidents, administrators, teachers, counselors, university presidents, professors, college placement officials, coaches, career specialists, youth group leaders and others on a case-by-case basis who have a direct association with the student and workforce markets, plus they have an important role in helping recruiters build relationships with their communities, schools and students.

The visit gives civilians a close-up look at what the Navy has to offer, and they learn what educational opportunities are available. Participants get a chance to tour a naval squadron, ship, submarine and other naval training facilities and witness the daily life of a sailor, listen to their stories and view the pride and professionalism of those serving our country. In return, educators share that insight with students so they can make educated choices about their future and know how the military could benefit them.

Navy Education Specialist Dawn Batross said the group will visit Naval Air Stations in Jacksonville and Mayport, view ships, the search-and-rescue school and working dogs, watch an enlistment ceremony and take part in flight and ship simulations.

“The purpose is to take educators who may not have as much knowledge about the Navy and help them learn so they may share information with their peers and students,” Batross said, adding that a total of 16 educators generally attend during two trips each year. “Everyone we’ve taken has thoroughly enjoyed it and took back information they’ve never had before. It gives civilians an eye into what it’s like to be a sailor on a day-to-day basis and they get to see a lot of sailors who are young — kids who are similar to their kids’ age — in action.”

Newman was invited by regional Navy recruiter Chief Stephen Jackson and selected by commanding officers but said few participants are chosen. He was approved last month and said he was excited to go, especially since he has always been a strong proponent of the military and has actively encouraged SHS students to join.

“From the outset of my time here, I’ve wanted to strengthen our relationship with the armed dorces,” he commented. “I believe more young people should consider the options provided by the armed forces, everything from the National Guard to the Navy and all branches in between.”

Today’s Navy is comprised of more than 332,000 members, including enlisted personnel, officers to reservists, Navy Department civilians officers and active-duty personnel in more than 150 career specialties. Newman said the benefits of enlisting in the military include paid schooling and lifetime insurance to job security and educational opportunities for servicepeople’s children through the G.I. Bill.

“Whether you enlist or apply for R.O.T.C., there are significant advantages to utilizing the programs offered through the various branches. You come out of school without the incredible debt many people are saddled with,” he continued.

Newman has worked with area recruiters for the past five years, inviting them into the school to speak in classrooms and having them set up tables and meet with students in the commons. He said there has been a definite uptick in student enlistments during that timeframe, estimating a 10-to-20-percent hike. Newman was most proud of recent recruits duringthe past few years, including one alumnus who was selected for the Naval Academy and another who enlisted and is part of the Navy Nuclear Program.

He was grateful to Principal Ted Gorman and Steubenville City Schools Superintendent Melinda Young for their support as he attended the EOV. Newman hoped to get acquainted with programs, learn about the career paths and be part of something many civilians never get a chance to experience.

In a way, Newman believes he is coming full circle. He said he was selected for the Naval Academy 30 years ago but opted to attend college, yet his interest in the Armed Forces has continued to run deep.

“I’m ready to see the work of these patriots in action,” he concluded. “In my mind, I’m enlisting for the duration of my time there. I’m going to soak up the information with this experience and have the tangible benefits to share with our students for many years to come.”