The structure of St. Catherine’s military tradition creates the ideal backdrop for boys to grow into responsible, self-motivated young men. This structure is characterized by clear expectations, meaningful rewards, and consequences that encourage growth. Within this time-tested system, students learn that every decision has a consequence; they quickly develop the self-discipline to make positive choices.
Clear Expectations
Boys thrive in an environment of clear expectations. At St. Catherine’s, rules and standards are outlined in general terms by the Cadet Honor Code and more specifically by the Cadet Handbook so that a cadet knows what is expected at all times.
Honor Code
The basis for all cadet expectations is the Cadet Honor Code:
A St. Catherine’s cadet will
- tell the truth
- do his own work
- respect others' property and retain their trust
- respect all other people
- encourage others to act similarly
Students learn the honor code during the first week of classes and are verbally tested to ensure understanding. They recite the code daily for reinforcement and are expected to follow it at all times – while in school and at home.
Cadet Handbook
The Cadet Handbook provides a specific roadmap for student expectations, academic and behavioral. It also outlines the rewards or consequences associated with following or neglecting these expectations.
Each student is issued a Cadet Handbook at the beginning of the school year and must carry it with him at all times. Our military personnel conduct handbook training during the first week of classes to ensure understanding of the rules, regulations, and standards described within.
The Merit/Demerit System
We believe strongly in the importance of promoting positive behavior and helping students understand that every decision made – positive or negative – has a consequence. At St. Catherine’s, the consequences of a cadet’s decisions come in the form of merits, demerits, and special recognition.
Merits
The SCA merit system recognizes cadets for superior performance in all aspects of student life. Cadets earn merits for positive achievements and decision-making in academic, spiritual, and military programs. After each quarterly reports periods, merits are tallied and posted. Cadets earning 800 or more merits during the academic year are awarded a permanent ribbon to signify excellent performance throughout the year.
Demerits
St. Catherine’s uses a system of enforced discipline to guide students as they develop their own self-discipline. This system is designed to teach and reinforce positive decision-making and consistency in behavior.
If they break the rules or do not follow orders, cadets are given demerits, which they must work off through Extra Military Duty (EMD). EMD can be academic or military, ranging from additional study hall to group drill instruction. EMD tasks are treated as learning opportunities. They are designed to encourage students’ overall growth and assigned based on each cadet’s needs.
Reports
Recognition is important in promoting positive behavior and enhanced performance. Every month, St. Catherine’s conducts a special ceremony called “Reports.” Here, our students receive special recognition and awards based on their performance in religious, academic, and military programs. Awards come in the form of ribbons and cords, which cadets can wear proudly on their uniforms. Students also earn special recognition for participation extracurricular activities and community service events.
Promotions
Cadets are also eligible to receive promotions in rank during monthly reports. Promotions signify that a cadet has demonstrated desire, drive, and capability to assume a greater leadership role within the cadet corps.
Cadets take extreme pride in earning promotions and work hard to attain this honor. To be considered for a promotion, a cadet must maintain a grade of “outstanding” or “excellent” in military effort, maintain excellent academic standing and conduct, and be recommended by faculty members.
To learn more about the structured environment of St. Catherine’s military tradition, please request more information or contact our admissions department at (714) 772-1363.