Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) is celebrating a major accomplishment at Sheffield High School after juniors and JROTC cadets Ibrahima Thiam and Baye Sokhna earned a perfect score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), one of the most competitive assessments for military career placement. Both students, originally from Senegal, are part of the ESL program and have been JROTC cadets since 2024. They are known for their respectful attitudes, punctuality, and strong discipline.
Sgt. Marcus Hunt said their achievements highlight the level of engagement within the program. “It encourages others to join JROTC and even consider enlisting after graduation,” he said. He added that Ibrahima and Baye’s focus and work ethic set them apart. “They complete every task without hesitation and are already working to create a peer mentorship program for fellow cadets,” Sgt. Hunt shared.
Sgt. Hunt and Major Darryl Cox credit Principal Kimberly Greer and school leadership for fostering a culture that pushes students academically and keeps momentum strong. They note that strong expectations and consistent support help students excel in and beyond the program.
“JROTC is about developing better citizens, and that helps our students excel in all areas,” Sgt. Hunt said. This milestone comes as Sheffield High strengthens partnerships with the Coast Guard, Army, and Navy, giving students direct exposure to military careers and pathways.
Ibrahima and Baye’s success continues to motivate other cadets to aim higher on the ASVAB and strengthen their academic performance. For students hoping to follow their lead, Sgt. Hunt encourages them to ask questions, stay curious, and take advantage of the many opportunities available at Sheffield High. He and Major Cox also invite families and community supporters to visit the JROTC program and see the students’ work firsthand.
Beyond their leadership at the high school level, the instructors also teach eighth graders at American Way Middle School twice a week and lead several service-learning projects. As the holiday season approaches, they are hosting a canned food drive and a toy drive to support families in the community.
Their achievement reflects the strength of the Sheffield JROTC program and the supportive school community that surrounds them. Their success continues to inspire students, uplift the work of MSCS JROTC programs across the District, and contribute to Sheffield High School’s growing culture of excellence and service.
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