Leading Side by Side: Meet Command Sergeant Major Kenzie Alexander

Kenzie Alexander has been part of JROTC since the eighth grade. Somewhere along the way, it became more than a class. It became a place where she belongs.

"JROTC has given me a structured program with people that I can call family," Kenzie said.

Today, Kenzie is a Cadet Command Sergeant Major at West Valley High School. She is a student leader in the Ram Battalion and helps guide and support her fellow cadets every day.

“My favorite thing to do in JROTC is drill. That's when a team marches and moves together in exact patterns,” she says. “It takes focus, practice, and a lot of trust in the people next to you.”

Kenzie is great at it. She has competed three times at the Cascade Mountain League Two-State Championships. She has even competed at the West Coast Nationals in Denver, Colorado.

But ask Kenzie what she loves most, and she'll talk about the people. 

“I love my instructors and fellow cadets. I also love that the program is led by students who plan, lead, and look out for one another. We can all be individuals, but we come together as one when it matters."

Kenzie says JROTC has helped her grow in many ways. At school, it has helped her build discipline. Outside of school, it has helped her become more independent and confident in who she is.

That confidence is pointing her toward big goals. 

“After high school, I want to go to college out-of-state and see more of the world. I’d like to become a dentist, or even better, an orthodontist.”

Outside of school, Kenzie says she loves being outdoors and would much rather spend free time with her horses than relax with a movie. When she isn’t at work, she enjoys riding four-wheelers in the mountains.

For younger students considering JROTC, Kenzie has some kind words. 

"It might seem scary, but it's a highly structured program with a bold group of students who want to grow.”

Kenzie's story makes us proud to know that she’s feeling connected, taking on real responsibility, and looking ahead to a bright future. She’s a great example of our WVSD Culture of Excellence in action.