Planning
Coordinating
Overcoming obstacles and challenges
Following directions
Working on a team
Leading others
These are but a few of the important life skills that are developed in our young men through their participation in our military program. Aren’t these the skills you want your son to have as he enters high school and college?
Leadership
At St. Catherine’s, leadership formation begins in the classroom. Our military personnel instruct cadets on the basics of successful leadership, including the 14 Leadership Traits of the Marine Corps: Integrity, Knowledge, Courage, Decisiveness, Dependability, Initiative, Tact, Justice, Enthusiasm, Bearing, Endurance, Unselfishness, Loyalty, and Judgment.
Following classroom study, cadets are given leadership tasks, both individually and as a group. The military personnel evaluate students on their performance in these leadership roles and share feedback with the cadets.
Peer Leadership Program
When it comes to leadership, there is no substitute for practical experience. St. Catherine’s students begin to take on leadership positions from a young age through our unique system of peer leadership.
Cadet leaders are responsible for a variety of daily activities. They may be responsible for teaching their company of cadets a new drill sequence or presenting daily colors for morning formation. The highest-ranking cadet, known as the regimental commander, is responsible for leading and organizing the entire student body. No matter what their specific duties, all cadet leaders learn and practice important problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills that will serve them well in their academic and professional careers.
The next generation of morally grounded and truly effective leaders can be found on the campus of St. Catherine’s Academy.
Responsibility & Organization
Organization and the ability to take on personal responsibility are important skills both in school and in life. However, these traits do not come naturally for many boys.
St. Catherine’s distinctive structure helps students foster fundamental organization skills that are necessary for success in high school and college. Strong study skills are a daily part of a cadet’s life. The Cadet Handbook clearly outlines academic requirements, such as keeping an agenda for daily homework assignments, bringing appropriate materials to class, and listening carefully to all directions. Outside of academics, inspections ensure that cadets maintain a tidy appearance and organized locker.
Studies show that boys are able to accept responsibility from a young age. When given the chance, they will rise to the occasion. Through the military tradition, students are given special responsibilities, such as:
- Recommending merits and demerits
- Maintaining daily logs related to the activities of the military department
- Serving as cadet sentries (monitors) during recess
- Keeping the academy grounds and facilities clean and free of litter
- Supervising the dining hall
- Maintaining order and discipline in the dorms
To learn more about the life skills taught through St. Catherine's military tradition, please request more information or contact our admissions department at (714) 772-1363.