(a) The principal and governing board of a private educational institution, charter school, or military academy in which a J.R.O.T.C. or R.O.T.C. unit is not maintained, but which otherwise meets the qualifications prescribed by this chapter and any rules and regulations that may be adopted by the Adjutant General, may apply to the Adjutant General for permission to establish a California Cadet Corps unit, battalion, or regiment pursuant to this chapter.
(b) If the Adjutant General approves the petition, the principal and governing board of the private school shall have the same authority as a similar official of a school, college, or community college to create a unit of, and to become a member of, the California Cadet Corps.
(c) A California Cadet Corps unit formed under this section shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter as though it were a school, college, or community college.