Leadership Education

The Academy’s Military Leadership Program promotes a variety of life skills: planning, following directions, working as a team, setting goals, and overcoming obstacles. Through this unique and tradition rich program, SAA boys have learned to become responsible, self-confident young men. The military program teaches leadership skills, critical thinking skills, and promotes attention to detail. Students learn how to think as a leader, solve problems, learn to delegate, and build the team. They learn to be leaders of honor and integrity.

Pre-K - 2nd Grade: Students in Primary School do not formally participate in the Military Leadership Program. They do, however, grow into the structure, community, and peer leadership of this school-wide program through regular activities, such as wearing a modified school uniform, being recognized for positive achievements, and partnering with a “buddy” student.

3rd - 8th Grade: Students in Elementary and Middle School are full members of our Military Leadership Program. They participate in drill activities, earn rewards and consequences based on the merit/demerit system, and receive promotions in rank and responsibility. Recognizing the needs and abilities of younger students, elementary school students focus on learning basic drill movements, maintaining a proper uniform, and following orders. These basic skills lay a foundation for self-confidence and personal responsibility. 

The Military Leadership Program is what we describe as one of our “load-bearing walls,” the things that can never change and one of the hallmarks of an Academy education. For over 100 years, the fundamental premise at The Academy is to use a military model within an exceptional educational environment. The military model uses structure, routine, accountability, leadership, teamwork, decision making and personal pride as vehicles to holistically develop young boys to meet their fullest potential. The pillars are fully integrated into a challenging and purposeful academic curriculum. When our students graduate, they are not only prepared for the rigors of high school but prepared to face life’s journey with determination, perseverance, and resolve. 

The Military Leadership Program at SAA does not cater to children with emotional or behavioral difficulties. The program is designed to teach leadership skills and foster brotherhood among our students. 

The school uniform is a symbol of honor and tradition, of esprit de corps and morale, and of personal excellence and pride. The Academy has a set of standards for the school uniform and appearance where discipline is judged. Therefore, it is important for all students to maintain a high standard of dress and personal appearance. Elements of this standard are neatness, cleanliness, safety, uniformity, and school image.

For details on uniform requirements, visit the Uniform page.