The principal and governing board of any private educational institution 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 cadet company or cadet companies, battalions, or regiments of the
California Cadet Corps pursuant to this chapter. If the Adjutant General approves the petition, the principal and governing board of the private school shall have the same authority as similar officials of public schools, community colleges, or colleges to create units of and to become a member of the California Cadet Corps. Any cadet company or companies, or unit formed under this section, shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter as though it were a public school, community college, or college.