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Martin High ROTC obstacle course replacement paused after instructor rejects delivered materials
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Summary
Materials estimated at $20,000 intended to replace worn elements of Martin High's ROTC obstacle course were left on site but installation was halted after the ROTC instructor said the parts did not meet training specifications; staff said the district is on standby pending specification guidance from Cadet Command, which has been slow to respond.
LAREDO ISD staff told trustees on Nov. 3 that replacement components for the Martin High School ROTC obstacle course were received but installation was stopped after the ROTC instructor assessed the materials as not meeting training needs.
Velasquez said the district received the replacement elements, valued at roughly $20,000, but Sergeant Villareal (the ROTC instructor) determined the parts were not appropriate for required training and paused the installation. Staff said they are seeking specification or approval from Cadet Command to confirm whether the delivered materials comply with training standards.
Velasquez noted federal Cadet Command staff have been slow to respond amid a federal government shutdown, leaving the district unable to obtain a formal specification. Trustees asked who ordered the parts; staff said the order reflected previously installed elements and safety/quality considerations would guide next steps.
One trustee said the original course installation cost about $125,000; staff said they will meet with campus administration and ROTC leadership to reconcile specifications and return with a recommendation that prioritizes safety. Until Cadet Command or certified ROTC representatives confirm specifications, the replacement work remains on hold.
