Efforts to bring an Army leadership program to Franklin High School have succeeded, and we commend those who worked so diligently to make that a reality.

The program, called the National Defense Cadet Corps, which is almost identical to the more widely known Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, will teach discipline, principles and physical fitness to those students in grades 9 to 11 who wish to participate. It also, according to one expert, will help build their character and motivate them to become better citizens.

The positive effect on the students and, in turn, our community as a whole, is much needed, especially as schools are struggling with budget cuts and Franklin is dealing with higher crime.

Kudos to Chuck Lilley and Franklin-Southampton Futures Inc. for having the foresight to understand that battling those tough issues should include this proactive approach to education.

This is a positive program that will open many doors for Franklin students, including scholarship money for those who qualify and apply.

Implementing NDCC next year is probably one of the best things has happened to the school, which has seen its share of disappointment with lagging test scores and high dropout rates.

It isn’t the be all and end all, but it’s a giant first step.