Character Development

Cadets learn character and responsibility through leading others. The cadet leaders, because they are in direct control of other cadets, have a unique opportunity to be responsible. Their actions affect not only themselves but also other people in their close-knit community. They can be a positive, constructive influence in the development of a younger cadet. Many of them have had an older cadet invest and mentor them, helping them get through, so they are willing to do it and know its value. When the cadets are given this power and responsibility (appropriately monitored), they usually flourish into diligent leaders. Along the way, they learn to be counselors and mediators, motivators, critics and encouragers. The military structure is well suited for this, giving the cadets more and more responsibility as they move higher and higher up, gaining respect and earning rewards as they go.

Character education is integrated throughout the entire curriculum, thus increasing the cadet's critical thinking skills and solidifying moral concepts. The Academy sponsors and encourages a range of religious programs. Sunday services for Protestant and Roman Catholic cadets are conducted through arrangements with two retired US Navy Chaplains. There are Christian cadet organizations that sponsor weekly evening Bible studies. Non-Christian religious needs are addressed through the use of members of the faculty and staff and community members of those faiths acting as sponsors.

A mandatory weekly assembly is held on Wednesdays wherein the President of the Academy, the Dean of Academics, the Faculty, and guests speak about character lessons, morals and values. Special achievements are acknowledged during assembly and many traditional ceremonies are also held during this time such as commemoration of Memorial Day. This forum can also be used to impart important issues affecting campus life.

A traditional set of Sunday Chapel services are held weekly beginning the Sunday before the start of school with Catholic and Protestant services available. Both services are conducted by retired US Navy Chaplains who exude a love for the boys.  The Chaplains hold a brief 45 minute service to stimulate the boys in spiritual teaching and challenge.  Less formal but equally important are ASB clubs that support the spiritual growth and character development of those who wish to participate.  The Order of Saint Michael's is for boys going through Catholic catechism as taught by the ANA Catholic Chaplain.  The Band of Brothers, overseen by a faculty member, is a Christian club that meets weekly for bible study and fellowship.