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The Chicago Military Academy

at Bronzeville

Mission

The Chicago Military Academy High School at Bronzeville

mission is to prepare cadets for college and postsecondary

success through a rigorous and relevant college preparatory

curriculum. With the military model providing a project-based

structure, cadets are introduced to leadership and cooperative,

applied academic work in math and science.

Vision

The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville employs a military

structure to concentrate on academic achievement and

individual responsibility. A combined focus on math, science

and engineering and personal accountability guides cadets

through functional roles within the school. Cadets will graduate

to attend college as lifelong learners having realized

progressively greater capacities for inquiry and leadership.

The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets

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The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville

3519 S. Giles Ave.

Chicago, IL 60653

26 August 2013

Handbook for Cadets

SY 2013/2014

Table of Contents

A. The Academy 3

B. Administrative Notes 3

C. The Military Model 4

D. Attendance 14

E. Cadet Discipline and Compliance 16

F. Cadet Academics 23

G. Student Development 30

H. School Administrative Measures 33

I. References 39

J. The Cadet Creed 40


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A. The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville. The Chicago

Military Academy at Bronzeville (the Academy or CMA-B) is a

college preparatory military academy high school of Chicago Public

Schools (CPS). As such, the Academy employs a combination of

educational philosophies providing a serious program of instruction for

Chicago high school students to prepare for success in college and life

after high school. The military model affords all cadets a system of

functional responsibility, discipline and leadership training.

Additionally, our college preparatory curriculum is standards-based and

mandates four years of math and science with a focus on research and

engineering. The instruction is rigorous; cadets go well beyond the

accumulation of isolated information. The program is relevant;

instructional design is founded in research and identified skills and

knowledge necessary for future success.

B. Administrative Notes. There are several administrative notes to

cadets and parents which will help facilitate orderly school operations

when these notes are used as a guide while at CMA-B. The notes are

particularly essential to proper and efficient school functions.

1. Parent/Guardian Information. Parent/Guardian information

must be kept current at all times. If for any reason the name of a

legal guardian changes, the school must be notified immediately.

Certain actions within the Academy can only be completed by the

current legal guardian as indicated within the CPS student database

known as IMPACT. Changes shall be made through the Main

Office. Documentation must accompany any changes to

Parent/Guardian status.

2. Student Address. It is critical that student addresses be kept

accurate. There is a significant amount of information, including

progress reports and vital school communications, which is delivered

by mail. Unfortunately, when mail is returned due to incomplete or

inaccurate addresses in IMPACT, information cannot be shared and

vital funds are wasted and neither can be tolerated. As well, CPS

uses student address records for a variety of demographic purposes

throughout the school year.

3. Telephone Number. Cadets are required to provide regular

and immediate access to parents and guardians at all times via

telephone. Cadets who do not keep home phone or parent cell phone

numbers current are subject to disciplinary action because this ability

to reach out to parents is necessary for safety and legal reasons.


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C. The Military Model. The military model provides a project-based

framework for learning through its hierarchical cadet organization

thereby establishing group goals and objectives. Though some

goals/objectives are established by school adult leadership, most

student goals are developed by the cadets, themselves. Cadets assume

responsibility for achieving these goals/objectives through action-

planning and execution essentially of their own design. In a structured

and coached environment the goal setting process allows this vital

college-level skill to be nurtured and more fully acquired.

Additionally, the military model provides an established standard of

discipline which is not readily evident in most non-military high

schools. Cadets wear proper military uniforms and abide by military

customs and courtesies, referring to proper titles in conversation and

adhering to an established merit/demerit system based on the Academy

guidelines of military self-discipline. Not to be confused with a

―Military-style Boot Camp‖ high school model which severely enforces

codified discipline, the Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville relies

on student self-discipline, following the CPS Student Code of Conduct

(SCC) and the CPS Military Academy Guidelines (MAG). With

enforced compliance (an Academy priority), the resultant environment

is orderly and respectful and more conducive to learning than a chaotic

and/or less disciplined setting.

1. Organization. Our school culture is that of a military school

community. Cadets are assigned to a single battalion with five

companies. Each company has three to four platoons. Each platoon

has four squads. Normally, each squad has eight cadets including a

squad leader and a team leader. These organizational units are led

by cadets within CMA-B. As cadets are promoted through each year

group and through cadet ranks, they become general/academic

mentors and advisors to the younger cadets.

2. Functional Responsibility. Each cadet at the Chicago

Military Academy is charged with a measure of functional

responsibility to the school community.

a. The Corps of Cadets. The organizational structure within the

Academy provides for a chain-of-command within the Corps of

Cadets. These functional leadership roles allow cadets to practice

and develop managerial and supervisory skills in a controlled

environment. The progression is typically year-to-year, but, just as

some students seek the added responsibility of AP coursework,

some cadets will excel in identifiable leadership skills. The chain-

of-command leadership roles within the Corps of Cadets include:

(1) Squad which is led by:


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Squad Leader (Cadet Staff Sergeant), and

Team Leader (Cadet Sergeant).

(2) Platoon which is led by:

Platoon Leader (Cadet Lieutenant), and

Platoon Sergeant (Cadet Sergeant First Class).

(3) Company which is led by:

Commander (Cadet Captain),

Executive Officer (Cadet Lieutenant), and

First Sergeant (Cadet First Sergeant).

(4) Battalion which is led by:

Commander (Cadet Lieutenant Colonel),

Executive Officer (Cadet Major), and

Command Sergeant Major (Cadet Command

Sergeant Major).

b. Academy-wide Staff. In addition to the Academy cadet

organization (above) a functional, coordinating staff manages cadet

resources.

(1) Adjutant (S-1) (Cadet Captain) with administrative staff

is responsible for maintaining cadet records including

cadet administrative information, awards and decorations,

service/participation logs, merit/demerit listings,

promotions, and staffing.

(2) Information & Security Officer (S-2) (Cadet Captain)

with I/S staff is responsible for maintaining cadet staff

Information Technology and Audio/Visual equipment,

and for maintaining good order and discipline in the

hallways.

(3) Operations Officer (S-3) (Cadet Major) with operations

staff is responsible for publishing all cadet operations

orders and maintaining cadet training schedules and

training records.

(4) Logistics Officer (S-4) (Cadet Captain) with logistics

staff is responsible for assisting the Academy

Commandant in all logistical aspects of Academy

functions and for assisting the Academy Military Property

Custodian in ensuring all cadets have complete, proper

fitting and serviceable uniforms.


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(5) Public Affairs Officer (S-5) (Cadet Captain) with PAO

staff is responsible for timely update of all information

posted on the cadet website, within the Academy Cadet

Newsletter, and the Daily Bulletin. The PAO is

responsible for ensuring CPS Director of Military

Instruction is notified of all Academy activities and for

timely sharing of cadet achievements through hometown

new releases and other documents shared with

neighborhood news organizations.

c. Special Staff. The Academy also requires special staff

sections to ensure proper and efficient operation within the Corps

of Cadets. These staff sections are ancillary to the formal

organization and operate at the personal direction of the Cadet

Battalion Commander. Special staff sections are not required IAW

CCR 145-2 and might not be implemented if the requisite

associated program is not fully implemented.

(1) Judge Advocate General (JAG) (Cadet Major) with the

JAG staff is responsible for the smooth operation of the

Peer Jury program as prescribed by the Chicago Board of

Education via the Student Code of Conduct.

Additionally, the Academy JAG oversees the Honor

Platoon program and reviews all requests for removal

from leadership positions within the Corps of Cadets.

(2) Special Projects Officer (SPO) (usu. Cadet Captain) with

various temporary assigned staff members is responsible

for special projects within the battalion such as special

ceremonies, the Military Ball and Organization Day.

(3) Science Officer (usu. Cadet Captain) and his/her staff of

research assistants and project managers supervise the

research/internship programs of the Cadet Battalion.

d. Cadet Leadership Position Application Process: The

academy requires cadets to apply for leadership positions, from

squad leader to battalion commander. Applications are available

from JROTC instructors. The Commandant and JROTC instructors

meet and collectively decide which applications will be accepted

based upon merit.

e. Chain of Command Board: A board is placed next to the

cadet main entrance to the academy in the vicinity of the security

screening area. Cadet leadership positions are to be color coded

red, amber or green. Red positions are either unfilled or filled with

a cadet who has not applied for the position. All red positions are


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open for application. Amber positions are filled with cadets who

have applied and been accepted for a position but have not

completed the mandatory training for the position. Green positions

are filled with a cadet leader who has successfully applied, been

accepted, and completed training.

f. Rank has its Privileges (RHIP): Cadets that successfully

apply, are accepted, and complete the prerequisite training for the

leadership positions are granted certain privileges. These privileges

include:

(1) Off campus lunch: Off campus lunch is a form of reward

for exceptional service. Cadets are issued a parental

contract that must be signed prior to leaving campus. Off

campus lunch privileges are restricted to eating

establishments within walking distance of the school (4

block radius). Cadets may not drive to lunch. Cadets may

not purchase off campus lunches for consumption at the

Academy nor may they bring any food items back from

lunch. All off campus lunches must be consumed prior to

reentering the Academy. Cadets must complete lunch in

the same 50 minute period accorded cadets in the

Academy Dining Facility and cannot be late returning

from off campus lunch. Failure to abide by these rules

may result in the revocation of this privilege.

(2) Study hall: Cadets in good standing within JROTC may

request to be excused from JROTC class (except during

critical benchmark skills instruction and/or testing

periods) to come to the battalion staff conference room to

complete ancillary work as necessary with the clearance

of the Commandant and the cadet‘s JROTC instructor. If

either determines that the JROTC class takes precedence,

this privilege will be rescinded.

(3) Weekly merit distribution: Cadets in battalion

leadership positions receive weekly merits for their

performance. Cadets who do not perform IAW expected

levels of performance may not receive merit distribution.

In addition, these cadets are to be counseled by their cadet

leader, given specific criteria for improvement, and

reviewed the following week for their performance.

Partial merit credit may be awarded by the commandant

with the recommendation from the appropriate JROTC

instructor.


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g. Removal from Leadership Position: If during the course of

the semester one or more of the following occurs, the cadet leader

shall be called for a meeting with the cadet, cadet‘s parent, JROTC

instructor, and the commandant:

(1) Failing JROTC class

(2) Accumulating excessive demerits (defined as 65 or more)

(3) Suspended from school for one or more days

(4) Failure to perform one‘s duties as determined by the

Academy Commandant

The cadet may be removed from his/her position of

responsibility upon review by the Cadet Judge Advocate

General (below). The Academy Commandant will determine

final resolution of grade and position. Cadets being considered

for removal from position based upon failure to perform one‘s

duties shall have been counseled by the immediate supervisor

explaining inconsistencies and offering an opportunity to

repair any deficiencies. A cadet may reapply for a leadership

position at the beginning of the next academic semester (not

during the summer).

h. Classroom Staff. Academic classes within the Academy are

designed to have rotationally assigned duties and responsibilities in

order to ensure the smooth operation of instructional activities.

Minimally, classroom responsibilities include:

(1) Class Leader responsible to the teacher for military

protocol of cadets within the classroom or at any school

function.

(2) Class Administrative Assistant serves as classroom

attendance assistant and documents clerk.

(3) Class Logistician serves as classroom supply clerk,

audio/visual technician, and maintenance assistant.

3. Cadet Bearing. Cadets at the Chicago Military Academy at

Bronzeville are to conduct themselves with honor and military

bearing at all times. They will adhere to basic uniform and drill

standards, military customs and courtesies, and Academy protocols.

They shall work together as a team and strive for excellence in all

they do.

a. The Cadet Uniform. The cadet uniform is provided to

JROTC cadets by the United States Army. These uniforms are not

replicas of service uniforms, but official U.S. Army uniforms.

They are to be worn and treated as such.


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(1) Disrespectful wear and/or treatment of the cadet uniform

cannot be tolerated. Instructions for proper wear of the

uniform are found in Army Regulation 670-1, Wear and

Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia, and in Cadet

Command Regulation 145-2, JROTC Organization,

Administration, Operation, Training and Support.

(2) Only uniforms, accessories, and insignia prescribed in this

handbook, in the common tables of allowance, or as

approved by Headquarters, Department of the Army

(HQDA) will be worn by cadets at the Chicago Military

Academy. Cadets shall not, under any circumstances,

mix unauthorized civilian attire with the Academy

uniform. Unless specified in this handbook, the Academy

Commandant will establish wear policies for

organizational clothing and equipment not identified in

AR 670-1 or CCR 145-2.

(3) No item governed by AR 670-1 or CCR 145-2, nor any

organizational uniform item, will be altered in any way

that changes the basic appearance, design, or the intended

concept of fit. Any violation of regulatory wear and

appearance constitutes an infraction of the CPS Military

Academy Guidelines.

b. Types of uniforms. Although the US Army Cadet Command

is in the process of adjusting cadet uniforms nationwide, there are

five basic types of dress to be worn by cadets at the Chicago

Military Academy at Bronzeville.

(1) Class A. Class A uniform is thoroughly described in both

AR 670-1 or CCR 145-2. This is the cadet business

uniform and is worn on Wednesdays by all cadets. It is

also the uniform cadets must wear when on any CMA-B

sponsored field trip. Any deviation shall be at the

discretion of the Academy Superintendent.

(2) Class B. Class B uniform is thoroughly described in both

AR 670-1 or CCR 145-2. This is the cadet work and

school uniform and is worn on Mondays, Tuesdays,

Thursdays and Fridays.

(3) “Class C”. Although not an official military uniform, on

select Thursdays throughout the year, the Academy

Superintendent may authorize cadets to wear approved

distictive polo shirts and khaki pants or Dickies pants.


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(4) PT. Physical Training (PT) uniform consists of green

CMA-B T-shirt, hoodie, shorts and sweatpants with

athletic shoes.

(5) Business Casual. When offered a Business Casual Pass,

cadets are authorized to wear civilian attire which meets

the following criteria (as published by Virginia

Polytechnic Institute).

(a) Business casual is crisp, neat, and should look

appropriate even for a chance meeting with the CEO.

It should not look like cocktail or party or picnic

attire. Avoid tight or baggy clothing; business casual

is classic rather than trendy.

(b) Khaki or dark pants, neatly pressed, and a pressed

long-sleeved, buttoned solid shirt are safe for both

men and women.

(c) Wear a leather belt and leather shoes. Athletic shoes

are inappropriate.

(d) Ties are generally not necessary for business casual,

but if you are in doubt, you can wear a tie. It never

hurts to slightly overdress.

(e) Long-sleeved shirts are considered dressier than

short-sleeved and are appropriate even in summer.

Choosing white or light blue solid, or conservative

stripes is your safest bet. Polo shirts (tucked in, of

course) are acceptable in more casual situations.

(f) Don't confuse club attire with business attire. If you

would wear it to a club, you probably shouldn't wear

it in a business environment. Also, most attire worn

on televison is not appropriate for business

environments. Don't be deluded.

(g) Women can wear casual pants or skirts. Neither

should be tight. Fabrics should be crisp; colors should

generally be solid; navy, black, gray, brown and

khaki are always safe bets. For the most business-like

appearance, pants should be creased and tailored;

neither extreme of tight or flowing.

(h) A skirt should come at least to your knees while you

are standing. While you are seated, your thighs

should be covered. If your skirt comes to just below

the knee, a slit to just above the knee might be


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acceptable. A very long skirt should not be slit to

above the knee. Generally slits in the center back of a

skirt — to facilitate walking a stair climbing — are

acceptable. Slits to facilitate a view of your legs are

not appropriate for business purposes. Slips should

not be visible.

c. Military Customs & Courtesies. The US Army is an

organization that instills pride in its members because of its

history, mission, capabilities, and the respect it has earned in the

service of our nation. A reflection of that pride is visible in the

uniform, customs, courtesies, and traditions. Adherence to them

connects us with airmen, sailors and soldiers throughout America‘s

history. In particular, the Chicago Military Academy at

Bronzeville carries with it the traditions and heritage of the 8th

Infantry Brigade whose soldiers from the Bronzeville community

served our nation proudly and drilled from our own Drill Hall from

1915 until 1959.

(1) Customs. The Army has its own customs, both official

and social. Some have been handed down from the distant

past while others are of comparatively recent origin.

Those customs that endure stand on their own merits. As

long established social organizations, the Army, the Navy,

and the Air Force observe a number of customs that add

to the interest, pleasure and graciousness of military life.

A custom is an established practice. Customs include

positive actions - things you do, and taboos - things you

avoid. All established arts, trades, and professions, all

races of people, all nations, and even different sections of

the same nation have their own practices and customs by

which they govern a part of their lives.

(2) Courtesies. Most forms of military courtesy have some

counterpart in civilian life. Some of the Army‘s more

common courtesies include rendering the hand salute,

standing at attention or parade rest, or even addressing

others by their rank. Courtesy among members of the

Armed Forces is vital to maintain discipline. Military

courtesy means good manners and politeness in dealing

with other people. Courteous behavior provides a basis

for developing good human relations. The distinction

between civilian and military courtesy is that military

courtesy was developed in a military atmosphere and has

become an integral part of serving in uniform.


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(3) Saluting. The salute is widely misunderstood outside the

military. Some consider it to be a gesture of servility

since the junior rank extends a salute to the senior rank,

but we know that it is quite the opposite. The salute is an

expression that recognizes each other as a member of the

Corps of Cadets; that they have made a personal

commitment of self-discipline. The fact that the junior

rank extends the greeting first is merely a point of

etiquette - a salute extended or returned makes the same

statement.

(4) Forms of Cadet Address. A cadet addressing a higher

ranking officer (cadet or instructor) uses the word sir or

ma’am in the same manner as a polite civilian speaking

with a person to whom he wishes to show respect. In the

military academy, the matter of who says sir or ma’am to

whom is clearly defined; in civilian life it is largely a

matter of discretion. All Academy staff shall be

addressed as sir or ma’am by Academy cadets. Cadet

officers are addressed as sir or ma’am if they are of a

higher rank. In the case of cadet NCOs, they are

addressed by their rank because they have earned that

rank.

(5) Rendering Honor to the Flag. The flag of the United

States is the symbol of our nation. The union, white stars

on a field of blue, is the honor point of the flag. The union

of the flag and the flag itself, when in company with other

flags, are always given the honor position, which is on the

right.

(6) The Pledge of Allegiance. Except when requested by the

Academy Commandant or Cadet Battalion Commander,

the Pledge of Allegiance is generally not recited in

military formations or in military ceremonies. At other

functions where the Pledge of Allegiance is recited, a

cadet in uniform silently stands at attention facing the flag

and renders the hand salute if outdoors. Indoors a cadet in

uniform silently stands at attention facing the flag. Where

other participants are primarily civilians or in civilian

attire, cadets in uniform indoors may recite the pledge if

they desire. A cadet in civilian clothing recites the pledge

while standing at attention, facing the flag with the right

hand over the heart. Male cadets should remove headgear


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with their right hand and hold it over the left shoulder so

that the right hand is over the heart.

(7) Cadet Officer and NCO Privileges of Rank. In the

active military there are privileges that come with rank

and responsibility. Some of those privileges are higher

pay, different housing or more barracks space, NCO or

Officers‘ clubs, and dedicated vehicles or office space.

While these privileges are afforded according to rank, it

must be remembered that with higher rank comes greater

responsibility. At the Chicago Military Academy at

Bronzeville, cadet rank also has its privileges. The

acceptance of greater responsibility merits greater respect

and privileges that are given to help the leader do the job.

d. Classroom Protocols and Etiquette. Cadets are expected to

be seated in their classrooms prepared for class when the bell rings.

(1) Class Leader. Class leaders will be chosen in every class

and will normally be the senior ranking cadet; however,

the classroom teacher always has the final say. The class

leader is responsible for preparing the classroom prior to

the tardy bell, calling class to attention at the ringing of

the tardy bell (if required by the teacher), visually

inspecting cadets for uniform infractions, always having

cadets take their seats by announcing, ―Take seats,‖ and

completing any Merit/Demerit forms which may have

been issued during the class.

(2) Class Administrative Assistant. Administrative

assistants are to be chosen in every class by the classroom

teacher. This position may be rotated on a weekly or bi-

weekly basis. At the direction of the classroom teacher,

the administrative assistant may be required to conduct

roll call and/or collect homework.

(3) Class Logistician. The class logistician will be selected

by the classroom teacher on a rotational basis. These

classroom helpers shall assist the teacher in all logistical,

supply, or IT needs.

(4) Passes. Cadets shall not be in the halls during class time.

If it is necessary for a cadet to be in the halls during class

time, the classroom teacher shall provide the cadet with a

pass. This pass shall include the name of the teacher who

approved the activity. No passes shall be given during the


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first ten minutes of class and only one cadet should be

afforded a classroom pass at any given time.

e. Visitors. When an important visitor enters a

classroom, either the class leader or the first cadet nearest the door,

will call ―At ease!‖ The cadets stop what they are doing and face

the front of the class. If they are standing, they will come to the

position of ―At Ease.‖ If they are seated, they will remain seated

placing both hands emptied and on the table or desk. They will

remain silent in this position until the visitor, or someone in

charge, commands ―Carry on.‖ At which time the cadets will

resume their activities from prior to the visitor entering the

classroom.

D. Attendance. In order for any cadet to do well academically,

he/she must be present and on time for class each and every day. It is

absolutely essential that cadets arrive at school for morning formation

and attend all classes on his/her schedule. Missing formations and/or

classes and being tardy for formations and/or classes are violations of a

cadet‘s covenant with the Academy.

1. Computerized Attendance. All CPS schools report daily

attendance on the CPS IMPACT system. Attendance at the

Academy is monitored and recorded within 15 minutes of each class

period start time.

2. Phone Reminders. When a cadet is absent from morning

formation or from any academic classes throughout the day, teachers

and school office staff will likely call parents to inform them that

their cadet is not present for scheduled school work. This contact is

crucial to proper documentation of cadet attendance which impacts

both student performance and Academy record-keeping.

3. Automated Outdialer. The Absentee Outdialer System is an

automated telephone system which may be programmed to call the

home telephone numbers of absent cadets or other telephone

numbers submitted by the student's parent(s) or guardian(s). The

Academy will usually place personal phone calls to absent cadets‘

homes when feasible. A supplemental postcard mailing system may

be used to notify homes without telephones and homes that cannot

be reached by the Absentee Outdialer System. The Academy also

utilizes the CPS mainframe system to generate five (5) and ten (10)

day ―unexcused absence‖ letters.

4. Truancy Hotline. Please know that the Board of Education

has established a Truancy Hotline (773-553-4000) to give individual

citizens and businesses a convenient means of reporting school-aged


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students who are on the streets or at home during school hours, 24

hours a day.

5. Withdrawal/Removal From Enrollment. Students may be

removed from enrollment under the following guidelines.

a. All students are to be removed from enrollment when they

transfer to a different school (including attendance area school) or

graduate. Transfer and graduation procedures and requirements

are identified in CBOE Policies 10-0623-PO1 and 06-0628-PO2,

respectively.

b. All students are to be removed from enrollment if their

whereabouts cannot be determined after a school has completed all

of the following:

(1) calling all phone numbers on file for the student,

including emergency contacts;

(2) sending a letter addressed to the student‘s last known

address asking the parents to call or come to the school to

discuss the student‘s absenteeism; and

(3) visiting the student‘s last known address without finding

the student or the student‘s family.

c. No student under 17 years of age shall be permitted to

withdraw from enrollment. Students 17 years of age require the

expressed, written, and informed consent of their parent or

guardian to withdraw from enrollment. Specific provisions for

informed consent shall include, but not be limited to:

(1) an accommodation for limited English speaking

populations;

(2) a general description of the rights to educational services

being waived as a result of dropping out;

(3) a description of the rights to educational services

withdrawing students retain under the law, including the

right of dropouts to return to school and to a due process

appeal if the right to return to school is challenged by the

local school;

(4) information regarding adult and alternative educational

services available in the community; and

(5) information provided to the student as well as the parent

or guardian summarizing the likely adverse consequences

that result from dropping out of school.


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d. For students who wish to withdraw from enrollment, the

Academy shall complete all of the following before a student can

be removed from enrollment at a CPS school:

(1) verify that the student meets the age criteria for

withdrawing,

(2) verify that the student and, where applicable, the parent

have completed and signed the Consent to Withdraw

form,

(3) sign the Consent to Withdraw form, and

(4) immediately forward the fully-signed Consent to

Withdraw form to the Department of Drop-Out

Prevention and Recovery.

6. Tardiness: The Academy shall accept all enrolled cadets who

have not been suspended or expelled who present themselves for

daily attendance. CMA-B has a tardy policy which requires students

to be in school and in class during each of a cadet‘s scheduled class

periods, including lunch. Cadets shall not be sent home or refused

admission to school due to tardiness. Students who arrive late for

any class period must be allowed to proceed to their classes after

obtaining proper documentation of their tardiness through the Main

Office. Once documented, Academy staff shall ensure their

admittance to class. However, late arrival to school will result in a

cadet remaining after school to recover daily instructional minutes

The Academy may impose disciplinary sanctions pursuant to the

Student Code of Conduct for persistent tardiness to school or class.

Persistently missing formation is a violation of the CPS Military

Academy Guidelines. Cadets arriving to school after 8:00 am are

subject to both detention and mandatory Academic Augmentation.

7. Class Attendance. Students must attend their classes in order

to learn and retain course subject matter. Consequently, cadets‘

success in earning credits towards promotion shall be determined by

attendance in class as well as by performance on academic

assignments. Therefore, students who have unexcused absences in

20% or more of the classes in a particular course during the period

for which a unit of credit is earned shall not pass the course and shall

receive no credit towards promotion.

E. Cadet Discipline and Compliance. All students will adhere to

the CPS Student Code of Conduct (SCC) and the Academy will follow

all guidelines therein. Additionally, cadets shall comply with the CPS

Military Academy Guidelines (MAG) which outlines specific protocols

within the Academy necessary to good order and discipline.


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1. Preventive Behaviors. Many discipline and compliance

issues can be prevented with careful classroom planning and the use

of consistent norms and expectations. Active supervision by

instructional staff and cadet leadership can minimize potentially bad

situations. Problems often arise when cadets are demeaned by others

or not meaningfully engaged. All cadets are expected to adhere to

the lessons of Conflict Resolution and Anger Management as taught

in the JROTC curriculum.

2. When in Charge…Be In Charge!: Cadets placed by the

Commandant in positions of functional responsibility, are expected

to exert meaningful leadership and develop strong teams. Cadets

who abdicate this responsibility are no longer helping but may now

be part of the problem. When assigned to lead a unit, the cadet

leader is responsible for all things that happen, right or wrong,

within that unit. This includes but is not limited to, uniform

appearance, cadet deportment in and outside of the JROTC

classroom, cadet behavior outside the academy, etc. If a cadet leader

sees or senses a problem, he/she must make the necessary on the

spot correction and counsel the cadet(s) so the mistake is not

repeated. If, after counseling the cadet(s), the leader senses no

change, it is prudent to take the issue to the next higher level of cadet

leadership in the cadet chain of command and inform a JROTC

instructor of the situation.

3. Cadet Compliance and Discipline Measures. All Cadets at

the Academy are expected to comport themselves with military

bearing and dignity at all times.

a. Discipline v. Compliance. Because the Chicago Military

Academy operates under two sets of guidelines, it must be

understood where delineation occurs. To be sure, the SCC takes

precedence over the MAG. In this sense, the SCC governs issues

of discipline common to all schools within CPS. The MAG

governs issues of compliance common only to the military

academy high schools of CPS. In any event, lack of discipline or

compliance in the classroom, in the hallways or at school functions

cannot be tolerated. Corrective action may include:

(1) Cadet may be called to Attention or At Ease by an

Academy staff member or senior ranking cadet as a way

of stopping negative behavior wherein failure to comply

is considered insubordination on the part of the offending

cadet,

(2) Cadet may be given corrective instruction on how to

improve,


18

(3) Cadet may be given demerits based upon standard

merit/demerit allocations,

(4) Cadet‘s parent/guardian may be called to inform him/her

of misbehavior and/or non-compliance,

(5) Cadet may be asked to surrender his/her ID so it and/or

the cadet can be taken to the Discipline Office,

(6) For more serious offenses, generally those of level 3 and

higher within the SCC, cadet may be sent immediately to

the Commandant or the Academy Dean accompanied by a

misconduct report, which can result in more serious

disciplinary action.

b. Merit/Demerit. The merit and demerit system is a tool for

reinforcing discipline and enhancing the Academy‘s ideals and

goals. When administered properly it will improve the overall

discipline and morale of the Corps of Cadets. The process

described herein is overseen by the Academy Commandant whose

responsibility it is to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the

system as it operates within the parameters of Cadet Command

Regulation 145-2, Junior ROTC Program Organization,

Administration, Operation, Training and Support. See the separate

CMA-B document, Merit/Demerit System Guidelines for specific

guidance on issuance of merits and demerits.

(1) Academy Staff Members can issue merits and demerits

based upon the criteria listed in this handbook. Cadet

Officers and Senior Noncommissioned Officers are

authorized to issue merits and demerits under the

supervision of Academy JROTC instructors.

(2) When a Merit/Demerit Form is issued, cadets of the S-2

Staff shall follow these procedures:

(a) The staff/cadet writing the form should complete the

form in duplicate when possible. The original shall be

initialed by the cadet and given to the cadet‘s

operations officer.

(b) Cadets must process the original form through the

chain of command to the S-2 Safety and Security

Office. If the form exceeds 10 demerits, the

Battalion Commander/Executive Officer must initial

the form. The S-2 Safety and Security Officer is

responsible for obtaining the Battalion

Commander/Executive Officer signature/initials, if

necessary.


19

(c) After the form has processed through the cadet‘s

chain of command and after the S-2 has recorded the

demerits in the battalion merit/demerit ledger, the

form will be filed in the cadet‘s personnel record.

(d) Every week the company commanders and JROTC

instructors will meet to verify their merit/demerit

ledgers to ensure forms were properly processed and

recorded.

(e) If there is a discrepancy with any form, the cadet‘s

company commander and the S-2 Officer will resolve

the discrepancy. If the form in question exceeds 20

demerits, the Battalion Commander will resolve the

issue. The final adjudication will rest with the Senior

Military Instructor.

(f) The Academy Commandant shall provide governing

guidance in all final decisions regarding the

merit/demerit system.

(g) Technical difficulties within the aforementioned

process shall not absolve a cadet from the merits or

demerits otherwise assigned by an approved issuing

authority.

(3) Merit points can be awarded for exceptional performance

and noteworthy achievement. All cadets are eligible to

receive merit points and there are many opportunities to

earn them for extra participation. The following

performances are examples that warrant merit points.

Write ‗em up! – Examples of actions recommended for

merits include outstanding military bearing, cadet

participation in special events or cadet activities,

outstanding leadership in day-to-day activities, and other

special achievements.

(4) Demerits may be assessed for cadets violating Chicago

Military Academy at Bronzeville rules and procedures or

military customs and courtesies. The accumulation of

more than 65 demerits is considered excessive. Write ‗em

up! See the separate CMA-B document, Merit/Demerit

System Guidelines for specific guidance on issuance of

merits and demerits. Listed below are examples of non-

compliance worthy of demerits.

(a) Improper wear of the uniform such as a missing

nametag or other required accoutrement, missing


20

belt, or missing or improperly worn necktab or

necktie. Necties are to be cinched up to the top of the

collar.

(b) Appearance of the uniform such as an improper

undershirt, untucked shirt or blouse, civilian attire

with the uniform, or missing buttons.

(c) Grooming such as needing a shave or haircut, jewelry

not in compliance, unnatural haircolor, or improper

or missing hair tie/ponytail holder. Facial piercings

are not authorized under any circumstances.

(d) Classroom infractions such as sleeping, eating or

drinking in class, or talking without permission/out of

turn.

(e) Leadership failure such as repeated unexcused tardy

or absence, failure to wear proper uniform,

unprepared for class, lack of military courtesy, or

abuse of authority.

(f) Cadet misconduct related to functional responsibility

and the Military Model such as contumacious

insubordination or disobedience, disrespect to an

adult, repeated unexcused absence from formation, or

profanity or verbal abuse.

(5) Excessive Demerits: Cadets who accumulate 65 or more

demerits during an academic marking period are

considered excessive and may be cause to fail JROTC

class for that marking period. It is imperative that cadets

and cadet leaders have a constant awareness of their merit

status (number of merits and demerits) in order to avoid

―demerit surprise‖ on the eve of grade entry (see item 2d

above).

c. Extra Military Instruction. One hour after the final period

of each school day is designated for Extra Military Instruction

(EMI) and supplemental Academic Augmentation. This hour is

reserved for those cadets who may need or desire additional

academic or military assistance beyond normal school hours.

When mandated, attendance takes precedence over any other co- or

extra-curricular activity scheduled or otherwise.

(1) EMI can be scheduled as tutoring time or as a homework

lab (see below). It will also be scheduled for cadets

requiring extra training on military standards of conduct

and bearing.


21

(2) At the discretion of the Senior Military Instructor, cadets

may be scheduled for EMI during scheduled lunch

periods, but shall not deprive cadets of a minimum of

twenty minutes for noon meal.

(3) EMI may be scheduled for the afternoon from 3:35pm to

4:35pm or during ―zero hour‖ from 6:30am until 7:15am

at the discretion of the Senior Military Instructor and with

the approval of the parents of the scheduled cadet.

d. Cadet Judge Advocate General. The Cadet Judge Advocate

General (JAG) will assist cadets in becoming better citizens and

cadets. The JAG is an important part of a cadet military

enforcement process of intervention to council cadets and to

improve individual cadet behavior. If a cadet violates CPS Student

Code of Conduct Groups 1-3 violations, or has accrued 20 or more

demerits, the Academy Dean or Commandant may assign him/her

to a JAG hearing. Similarly, a cadet may request a JAG hearing as

part of the CPS SCC Peer Jury program through the Academy

Dean or Commandant. The purpose of the JAG is to counsel cadets

who have committed acts of misconduct and to recommend

specific punishment for the offense(s) if applicable.

e. Detention. Periods of discipline are served in the Detention

Center for infractions of school rules related to cutting, tardiness,

and/or cadet discipline. The cadet will be informed of the detention

by the Academy Dean. Detentions may be served before school,

after school or on Saturdays with the Detention Center staff.

Failure to serve detentions in the specified time will result in a

parent conference and possible suspension for the cadet.

f. Parent Conference. Parent conferences for disciplinary

reasons are not the preferred method of meeting with cadets‘

parents/guardians. However, it is absolutely essential to maintain

an active dialogue with parents particularly when cadets are having

difficulty with Academy rules. All parent conferences shall be

documented with date, time, nature and description of the

discussion. Cadets required to attend a parent-student conference

with Academy administration shall be in the correct uniform and

shall report to the administrator upon entering the meeting room.

g. In-School Suspension. As approved by the Chicago Board of

Education via the SCC, in-school suspension may be used in lieu

of an out-of-school suspension for specified periods. Students

remain in school but are assigned by Academy administration for

the day or for specified periods. This may be the result of a cadet

failing to report to school in the prescribed uniform of the day, for


22

classroom disturbances in order to preclude continued disruption,

or other infractions as identified within the SCC.

h. Suspension. The Student Code of Conduct states that ―For

gross disobedience of misconduct a pupil may be suspended

temporarily . . . for a period not to exceed ten school days for each

offense.‖ During any suspension, the cadet may not attend class,

participate in school activities, or visit the school grounds.

Students found on the premises can be arrested for trespassing.

Parents will be notified by letter and/or phone call of the reason

and length of the suspension. Cadets will be afforded an

opportunity to contest a suspension. Due process guidelines are

discussed within the SCC. Teachers shall provide homework

assignments to suspended cadets.

i. Administrative Transfer. The concept of a Military

Academy High School is to utilize the JROTC curriculum and the

teaching of leadership, discipline and functional responsibility as a

means for better preparing students for post-secondary education

and a successful life after high school. Because the military

academies expect a higher level of discipline and have higher

academic expectations for cadets, cadets who refuse to comply

with military standards and uniform policies or who repeatedly

engage in acts of gross misconduct and/or insubordination

undermine the mission and military standards of the school, thus

affecting the education of the other cadets. Administrative transfer

will be made in order to maintain the good order and discipline of

the Corps of Cadets. Cadets who leave a military academy as a

result of administrative transfer will be reassigned to their

attendance area school. Reasons for administrative transfer are:

(1) Repeated non-compliance to the academy‘s military

uniform policy on and off campus,

(2) Failing consecutive semester grades in JROTC,

(3) Demonstrated unsuitability based on accumulation of

excessive demerits or consistent unacceptable behavior,

including insubordination, relating to the Military

Standards as outlined in the Cadet Handbook,

(4) Failing to meet the terms of any probation or correct a

deficiency for which he/she was placed on probation,

and/or

(5) The request of the individual.

j. Expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct states that

―Whenever a pupil in any school is found guilty of gross


23

disobedience, misconduct, or other violations of the by-laws, rules

and regulations of the Board of Education in the City of Chicago,

he/she may be expelled from school.‖

4. Screening. In order to ensure a safe and secure environment,

students and visitors are subject to metal detector screenings. Walk-

through and hand-held metal detectors are employed for this

purpose. Cadets are to arrive at school early and remove all metal

objects from their person prior to entering the building.

5. Loitering. Cadets found loitering in the halls at any time are

subject to disciplinary action. For the safety of all students, cadets

are to leave the school immediately after dismissal. Loitering outside

the school especially near any CTA bus stop is prohibited. Students

who loiter are subject to disciplinary action and/or arrest. Teachers

are to ensure cadets do not linger in classrooms after class. If a

cadet(s) is to remain in the building after his/her final period of the

day, the Academy administration must be notified. Parents are

requested to pick up students promptly at the end of the school day

(when students are to be given a ride home) in order to preclude

cadets from being disciplined for loitering.

F. Cadet Academics

1. Literacy. At the Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville,

literacy across all content areas is the instructional priority.

Academy focus on reading and writing shall be evident in all subject

areas with academic benchmarks for each quarter.

a. Freshman Requirement. Because literacy is the essence of

most academic learning, reading and literature are prescribed for

all freshmen cadets. The 9th

grade curriculum is structured in such

a way that cadets receive College Reading and Writing within CPS

mandated English I. The English I course offers cadets exposure

to variety of literature types and genre including both fiction and

non-fiction.

b. Writing. All cadets will complete, at minimum, one three to

five page essay per core subject per semester. Students will be

evaluated based upon a school-wide scoring rubric from which

they will be informed of shortfalls in order to improve each essay

to passable status. The importance of literacy to student success

will be prevalent in all aspects of instruction.

2. Academic Integrity. Schools serve as learning environments

both on the basis of instruction but also in terms of how one behaves

in the larger world. Academic integrity must govern every level of

teaching and learning. Tests shall be administered and taken with


24

complete honesty. Suspicions of copying shall be addressed.

Plagiarism must be understood and cadets must know the difference

between correctly using resources and copying. Plagiarism and

cheating will not be tolerated and instances of such will likely result

in disciplinary action in accordance with the SCC.

3. Standards-based Instruction. The Chicago Military

Academy at Bronzeville uses a standards-based curriculum model

referred to as the Skills-based Learning and Assessment Curriculum.

a. Critical Benchmark Skills. All coursework is structured

with quarterly Critical Benchmark Skills over which cadets are

expected to demonstrate proficiency. Within each course syllabus,

the quarterly Critical Benchmark Skills and method(s) of

assessment are identified. It is absolutely essential that each cadet

review these skills often. Time should be taken at the beginning

and end of every quarter to discuss them as a group.

b. College Readiness Skills. The primary source of Critical

Benchmark Skills comes from ACT, Inc. which has identified

national College Readiness Standards. They may be found at

http://www.act.org/standard/pdf/CRS.pdf. This website includes

―Ideas for Progress‖ within each skill strand and at each skill level.

Cadets are encouraged to take advantage of the suggestions for

improvement throughout the document in order to improve their

chances for academic success within the classroom and on the

PSAE.

c. WorkKeys®. WorkKeys assessments are used during Day 2

of PSAE testing for assessing Reading for Information and

Applied Mathematics. These functional areas evaluate critical job

skills in their respective applications. More information can be

found at the ACT, Inc. website at

http://www.act.org/workkeys/assess/reading/levels.html for the

reading portion and at

http://www.act.org/workkeys/assess/math/levels.html for the math

portion.

4. Academic Augmentation: Augmentation consists of

additional minutes after the school day during which students are

afforded extended academic time to work on identified needs. This

RtI related program provides academically struggling cadets an

opportunity to maintain benchmark pacing, improve assessment

values and make up instruction lost for a variety of reasons.

5. Homework. In order to actively participate in classroom

activities, it is essential that cadets are prepared. Not only is

http://www.act.org/standard/pdf/CRS.pdf

http://www.act.org/workkeys/assess/reading/levels.html

http://www.act.org/workkeys/assess/math/levels.html


25

homework required by the Board of Education, it is a prerequisite to

most class activities. Homework that is not available for turn-in at

the assigned time shall be completed during Homework Lab in

conjunction with Academic Augmentation.

6. Time Management. Cadets shall record quizzes, tests and

daily homework assignments in the Academy Agenda. Because

homework is a constant and daily commitment, parents/guardians

should be encouraged to check their cadet‘s Academy Agenda for

this information. Additionally, homework assignments for each

class are posted on Student & Parent Gradebook Portals accessible

via the Academy website at www.chicagomilitaryacademy.org.

Keeping up with assignments and quizzes will help cadets in pursuit

of a quality education. Parents are asked to provide a place and time

at home devoted to study each day.

7. Specialized Services. Special Education supports students

with identified learning challenges and is governed by State and

Federal laws. All teachers are required to provide instructional

support to special education students through adapted and modified

curricula and instruction as well as follow all IEP accommodations.

a. Individualized Education Plan. Each Special Education

student must have a current Individual Education Plan (IEP). The

IEP is reviewed and revised at least annually. All teachers are

required to be familiar with each IEP, a legal document, of any

student in their charge and to follow its requirements. All cadets at

the Chicago Military Academy, including those with IEPs, are

required to contribute to their individual success through

completion of homework assignments, participation in optional

and mandatory tutoring, and taking full advantage of the

instructional support resources available at the Academy.

b. Americans with Disabilities Act. The Americans with

Disabilities Act (ADA) is federal legislation designed to protect

the civil rights of people who have physical and mental disabilities.

The ADA mandates that all Americans have full access to and can

fully participate in every aspect of society. The ADA requires the

removal of barriers that deny individuals with disabilities equal

opportunity and access to jobs, public accommodations,

government services, public transportation, and

telecommunications. The law applies to all aspects of our society,

including education.

8. Intervention. Because each cadet will begin his/her high

school career with critical obligations within an already established

military academy peer group, acceptance of associated

http://www.chicagomilitaryacademy.org/


26

responsibilities is essential. From the beginning, each cadet‘s

academic success is equally monitored by a number of interested

parties, creating a hierarchical ―pyramid of interventions.‖ * As a

school dedicated to the college preparedness of all students,

remediation at the Academy will be a proactive process. Cadets will

be given little opportunity to fail. A variety of established, standard

interventions will help all students achieve the high expectations of a

legitimate college prep curriculum. When struggling students are

identified, the response shall be immediate and collective. Partially

because of the progressive and sequential nature of a course of study

that focuses on college readiness standards, a cadet need only lag a

little to begin losing ground. Any failure, in any class, has a

devastating ripple effect on subsequent effort and must be avoided at

all cost. Cadets must take interventions, such as Academic

Augmentation, Extra Military Instruction, Teacher-Student

Mentoring, and Academy tutoring programs seriously. It is the

policy of the Academy to notify parents when cadets do not

participate in mandatory or recommended intervention.

9. Grading. Grading standards shall be uniform and consistent

throughout the Academy. To this end, the following guidelines will

provide a fair and transparent system of grading so that all students

are given equal treatment for their academic effort.

a. Grading Timeline. Current, running grades will be available

to cadets as assignments are scored and posted in Gradebook. It is

important to note that progress reports and mid-term reports reflect

a cadet‘s graded work through each five-week period. Within the

Skills-based Learning and Assessment Curriculum students may

improve their individual scores relative to various Critical

Benchmark Skills. Within the standards-based model at CMA-B,

cadets meeting benchmark standards at any time during the

semester shall have the higher score included in the final semester

grade. Scheduled grading periods are as follows:

(1) Five-week Progress Report. Progress reports are sent to

each cadet‘s home five weeks after the start of each

quarter.

* DuFour, R., Eaker, R., & Karhanek, G. Whatever It Takes: How Professional Learning Communities Respond When Kids Don't Learn. Bloomington, IN: National Educational Service, 2004.


27

(2) Mid-semester Report Card. Mid-semester or mid-term

report cards are passed out individually to parents during

―Report Card Pick-up‖ sessions approximately five days

after the end of the 1st and 3

rd academic quarters. Parents

are encouraged to attend these crucial, grading period

events to conference with teachers regarding student

academic achievement and progress.

(3) Semester Report Card. Semester final grades are issued

as semester report cards at the end of the 2nd

and 4th

academic quarters. These reports will include the grade

which appears on a student transcript and will include a

student‘s GPA and class standing.

b. Grading Standards. The following grading standard shall

ensure that all cadets receive consistent criteria for grading

individual work. Teachers shall publish course guidelines

regarding percentages of various aspects of an individual class.

These guidelines shall appear in the course syllabus and shall be

distributed to every cadet on the first day of class. CMA-B

grading scale is as follows:

A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 70-79

D = 60-69

F = Below 60 (Failure)

P = Pass

c. Grading Values. The following value criteria shall apply to

grading points for class rank. Different levels of courses carry

different values for calculating weighted grade point averages.

Grade S R H A Explanation

A 2 4 5 6 S = Significant Modification

B 2 3 4 5 R = Regular Course Content

C 1 2 3 4 H = Honors, High-level

D 1 1 1 1 A = College Level Course

F 0 0 0 0

P (No credit awarded.)

d. JROTC. Specific JROTC grading requirements stipulate that

in order to pass the JROTC class, each cadet must complete all

course requirements as directed in the course syllabus, have no


28

excessive demerits and complete three parades during the course of

the academic year:

Bud Billiken Parade (August). Required for all Freshmen

Academy cadets and leadership chain of command

Veteran’s Day Parade (November). Required for all cadets

in the Academy

Memorial Day Parade (May). Required for all cadets in the

Academy

Cadets actively participating, competing, and earning JROTC

credit for special JROTC teams may be excluded from

participation in one (or more) parade at the discretion of the

Academy Commandant.

e. Assessments. A comprehensive Academy assessment plan is

used across the curriculum and considered standardized within the

Academy. Student assessments generally fall into one of three

categories; Diagnostic, Formative (or interim), and Summative.

Core course summative assessments (finals) will be used to

determine satisfactory skill proficiency and promotion.

Assessments will focus on college readiness and foundational

skills.

(1) Diagnostic Assessments. Diagnostic assessments tell

teachers what associative skills and sub-skills cadets

possess prior to instruction. In this manner, teachers will

know if the class has the capacity for the upcoming

instruction as it is planned.

(2) Interim Assessments. Formative (interim) assessments

evaluate each cadet‘s progress through the lessons as the

class moves through the unit. Often presented as quizzes,

these assessments indicate relative mastery of the skills

and knowledge associated with the benchmark lessons.

As a cadet, when deficiencies are identified early,

assistance should be requested to avoid potential failure.

(3) Summative Assessments. Summative assessments

measure a cadet‘s mastery of benchmark skills. They are

indicative of his/her ability to perform the tasks associated

with CRS, ILS or CCSS standards.

(4) EPAS. Explore and Plan, 9th

and 10th

grade, respectively,

will generally be administered in October.


29

10. Promotion/Graduation Requirements. CPS promotion and

graduation requirements are found in the CPS Policy Manual at

http://policy.cps.k12.il.us.

a. Promotion. For promotion to the next grade level, the

promotion policy is as follows:

Freshman to Sophomore:

Completion of 5 units of academic credit and

Ten hours of service learning.

Sophomore to Junior:

Completion of 11 units of academic credit and

Twenty hours of service learning.

Junior to Senior:

Completion of 17 units of academic credit,

Completion of PSAE (Prairie State Achievement

Examination) and

Thirty hours of service learning.

b. Graduation. For graduation from a military academy, the

policy is as follows:

Completion of 24 units of academic credit in

prescribed courses identified by Board Policy

and successful completion of Public Law, Driver

Education, Consumer Education, and Health,

Forty hours of service learning, and

Successful completion of 4 years of successive

JROTC coursework.

(1) Commencement. Graduating seniors must be in good

standing in order to be included in the CMA-B

commencement program. Good standing includes

successful completion of all coursework and completion

of all service learning requirements prior to grade cutoff.

Grade cutoff for seniors will be 24 May 2013 for

SY2012/2013.

(2) Graduation Activities. Seniors who wish to participate

in celebratory activities such as Senior Prom, Senior

Luncheon and other school events must be in good

standing on the deadline date of 17 May 2013 for

SY2012/2013. As well, all accrued Academy fees must

be paid by this time. Senior cadets and their parents are

http://policy.cps.k12.il.us/


30

urged to ensure that all graduation requirements (above)

are completed and approved by the Counseling

Department prior to attempting to purchase tickets or

attire for graduation activities. These events are

contracted on a ―per seat‖ basis and once this contract is

confirmed, refunds will not be made available.

11. Academic Honors. Only those cadets who have completed

all graduation requirements may participate in the commencement

exercises. Those who participate will be required to adhere to all

rules and regulations. Special cadets are honored at commencement.

a. Valedictorian is the cadet with the highest grade point

average in the class. If there is a tie, each will be designated. To be

eligible a cadet must have completed a minimum of four

semesters.

b. Salutatorian is the student who has the next highest average.

If there is a tie, each will be designated. To be eligible a cadet must

have completed a minimum of four semesters.

c. Honor Rolls. Any cadet may achieve one of three Honor Roll

standings each semester. The three honor roll categories are the

Honor Roll, the High Honors Award, and the Academy

Superintendent‘s Award.

(1) Honor Roll. To become eligible for the Honor Roll

students must maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.0 – 3.99.

(2) High Honors. To become eligible for the High Honors

Award students must maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.5

– 3.99.

(3) Academy Superintendent’s Award. To become eligible

for the Academy Superintendent‘s Award students must

maintain a weighted GPA of 4.0 and above.

G. Student Development

1. Academy Philosophy. It must be clear in the minds of all

cadets that the Chicago Military Academy is a college preparatory

high school. As we focus on preparing our cadets for success in

college, we must be diligent in our efforts to recruit, train, and

otherwise prepare our students for postsecondary success. Chicago

Military Academy is dedicated to the philosophy that all cadets can

learn and succeed in college. The four major aspects of Student

Development at the Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville are:

a. School and Community Leadership. School and community

leadership is fundamental to responsible citizenship and will most


31

often manifest itself within the functional responsibility of the

military model and in the project-based aspects of service learning.

b. Social and Emotional Development. Social and Emotional

Learning (SEL) is crucial to cognitive growth in inter-personal

relationships and personal awareness. SEL will most often

manifest itself within the CMA-B Mentorship Program and in

JROTC work with Personal Growth Planning and each cadet‘s

Success Profile.

c. Postsecondary Preparation. All cadets are expected to

prepare for postsecondary education which they shall pursue

following graduation from the Academy. To this end, cadets will

be actively engaged in postsecondary preparation throughout their

four years at the Academy.

d. Standards-based Academic Performance. It is essential that

all cadets take an active role in their education. The Skills-based

Learning and Assessment Curriculum focuses teaching and

learning of the tasks, skills and knowledge that are necessary for

success in the 21st Century.

2. Academy Curriculum. The Skills-based Learning and

Assessment Curriculum of the Chicago Military Academy is

designed to prepare cadets for the rigor of college-level work.

Because of the need for quality writing, cadets will take college

writing in the freshman year. Sophomores will take two science

courses, chemistry and earth science, so that they may hone

laboratory skills and become familiar with a wide variety of

scientific pursuits. The curriculum includes mandatory math and

science in the senior year so that senior cadets do not lose focus and

continue to sharpen the skills that will be required for success in

college.

CMA-B juniors will align their studies based upon three optional

tracks based upon cadet interest and aptitude. These tracks are

Engineering & Technology, Leadership, and General Studies. In

general, however, the course sequence is as follows:

English Science Mathematics Social Science

9th

English I Physics Algebra I World Studies

10th English II Chemistry Geometry U.S. History

11th English III Biology Algebra II Soc. Sci. Elective

12th English IV Sci. Elective Math Elective Soc. Sci. Elective


32

3. Postsecondary Preparation. In addition to a rigorous

curriculum, cadets must complete a series of postsecondary

preparation activities which begin well before the senior year at the

Academy.

a. What’s Next Illinois. What’s Next Illinois serves as the

personal, online academic/college preparatory portfolio for each

cadet with specific tasks to be accomplished during each semester

at the Academy. Each quarter cadets will complete a variety of

college planning steps as part of their Academy requirement.

b. Individual Course of Study Plan. Cadets will complete a

course of study plan through the Counseling Department and

review it with their mentor. This plan will be included in the

What’s Next Illinois portfolio updated at least annually.

c. College Applications. Each cadet will apply to no less than

three colleges no later than the first Friday of December of his/her

senior year. All official transcripts up to six per cadet will be

forwarded to the application school at no charge to the cadet. A

postage and service fee of $3.00 will be charged for each official

transcript beyond the sixth individual transcript request.

d. Scholarship Applications. All cadets will apply for an

ROTC scholarship no later than the end of the first quarter of the

senior year. Although no cadet is required to accept a scholarship

from any of the Armed Services or Service Academies, the

purpose of this requirement is two-fold;

(1) As students at a college preparatory academy, cadets must

become familiar with the process of filling out the

scholarship application, and

(2) As part of the military model, the Academy serves to

provide opportunity for all cadets, who wish to continue

their education within a similar structure, to compete with

fellow seniors from throughout the nation for tuition

assistance through the U.S. military incurring no

obligation to join any service for the first two years of

successful college performance.

e. FAFSA. All cadets must complete the Free Application for

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before 30 April of their graduating

year. This requirement assumes that all cadets are serious about

their future academic pursuits and will ensure that every

opportunity will be afforded to them that they may lower the cost


33

of postsecondary education. It is imperative that parents/

guardians assist in this vital task toward realizing a quality college

education.

4. The Counseling Department. The driving force of Student

Development is the Counseling Department. It encompasses all year

groups from 8th

grade graduation until college enrollment. The

Counseling Department and the JROTC Department will work

together in order to accomplish the aforementioned student

development activities. The CMA-B Counselor for Student

Development shall have the lead for Postsecondary Preparation in

coordination with the Academy Commandant.

5. Recruiting. Active recruiting is critical for selecting and

acquiring the students we hope to populate the Academy as cadets.

Cadets are encouraged visit elementary schools and high school fairs

to present our programs to elementary principals, counselors,

students and their parents. Cadets earn points toward their recruiting

ribbon by assisting the Academy in the recruiting effort.

6. Freshman Academy. The Chicago Military Academy at

Bronzeville has an uncompromising commitment to freshmen. The

Academy focuses on positive relationships, early diagnostic and

formative assessments, and prompt intervention. Formative

assessments across the curriculum are regular, varied, and common.

Not only will freshman cadets take tests, but they will write papers,

give presentations, submit reports, create and execute projects,

debate issues, and evaluate their own progress. Freshmen cadets

must understand that they are being prepared for college.

a. Freshman Orientation. Freshman orientation is a program

run primarily by the JROTC Department. It is designed to instruct

incoming cadets on the basics of life at a military academy. While

most incoming freshmen attend Boot Camp in June, remaining

cadets get sized for their uniforms and receive schedules. All of

this work requires sophomore, junior, and senior cadet volunteers

to assist in this important program for incoming cadets.

H. School Administrative Measures.

1. School Fees. Class and activity fees are combined and

collected at one time during Orientation. Optional/individually

purchased items such as physical education uniforms, drafting

equipment, bus passes, etc., are NOT included in the standard fee.

Many of these items are available for purchase at Orientation or

through the Main Office.


34

2. Cadet Accouterment. Cadets are issued a complete JROTC

uniform upon enrollment into the Academy. This uniform consists

of a complete set of items issued through Chicago Public Schools‘

Department of JROTC from the United States Army. These items

are federal property and must be maintained by the cadets for as long

as these items are in the cadets‘ possession. Several items which are

required or optional wear for the cadets are available for purchase

from the Academy. Issued items must be returned to the Academy

upon graduation or transfer. Issue items rendered unserviceable due

to fair wear and tear shall be direct exchanged (DXed) through the

Academy supply room. Issue items missing or rendered

unserviceable due to negligence and/or abuse shall be replaced at the

expense of the cadet. A purchased item (except those purchased as a

replacement for issued items) becomes the possession of the cadet

and is not required to be returned to the Academy.

3. Bus Passes. CTA bus passes are available for purchase during

Orientation. The cost is determined by the CTA. Passes may be used

for transportation to and from school at a reduced fare. If a student

loses the bus pass during the year, an application for a new pass may

be obtained from the Main Office.

4. School Calendar. The first day of school for the 2012-2013

School Year is 4 September 2012 and the last day of school is 17

June 2013. Although most information about special dates, holidays,

bell schedules and teacher in-services has already been posted, more

information and any changes can be obtained from your division

teacher and from the Academy website. A monthly school calendar

is also posted in the Dining Facility. Bulletin boards around the

building contain additional information on various club activities and

upcoming events.

a. SY2013/2014 Holidays

(1) Labor Day 2 September 2013

(2) Columbus Day 14 October 2013

(3) Veterans‘ Day 11 November 2013

(4) Thanksgiving Day 28 November 2013

(5) Thanksgiving Holiday 29 November 2013

(6) M. L. King, Jr‘s Birthday 20 January 2014

(7) A. Lincoln‘s Birthday 12 February 2014

(8) Memorial Day 26 May 2014

b. SY2013/2014 Vacations


35

(1) Christmas/Winter Break 23 Dec 2013 – 3 Jan 2014

(2) Spring Break 14 Apr – 18 Apr 2014

c. SY2013/2014 Cadet Non-attendance Days

(1) School Improvement 1 November 2013

(2) School Improvement 24 January 2014

(3) School Improvement 28 March 2014

d. SY2013/2014 Report Card Pick-up and Parent-Teacher

Conferences

(1) Mid-term 1st Semester 12 November 2013

(2) Mid-term 2nd

Semester 7 April 2014

e. Class of 2014 Graduation

(1) Graduation. Graduation for the Class of 2014 is

tentatively scheduled for 5 June 2014.

(2) Graduation Celebratory Activities. Graduation and

graduation celebratory activities are for graduating seniors

only. Senior prom, senior luncheon, and other activities

agreed upon by the senior class are approved by the

Academy Superintendent shall not be taken for granted by

cadets. Tickets to prom and luncheon are non-refundable.

Therefore, it is essential that seniors ensure they are

meeting CPS graduation requirements before purchasing

tickets and planning to attend these significant events.

(3) Senior Committee. The Senior Committee shall be

formed in September 2013 to plan senior activities

throughout the year. The committee shall elect a

Chairman, 2IC, and social sub-committee chair. Senior

Committee plans and activities shall be staffed through

the faculty Senior Advisor to the Academy

Superintendent.

5. Cadet Identification (ID) Cards. Cadets requiring ID cards

at any time after the beginning of the school year must report to the

Attendance Office. To insure the safety of all students and staff at

the Chicago Military Academy and to prevent trespassers from

entering the building, students are required to display valid photo

identification cards at all times. Disciplinary action will be taken for

any and all ID infractions.


36

a. Each student is given an ID card at the beginning of the school

year. This card must be worn attached to the left shoulder strap

facing forward.

b. Cadets are responsible for their ID cards. A cadet who has lost

his ID card should apply for a duplicate during lunch period, and

pay the required $5 replacement fee.

c. Any cadet possessing an ID card not belonging to him or her

will be disciplined.

d. Refusing to wear an ID, falsifying an ID, or tampering with an

ID card is considered a serious offense and may be punishable

under the Student Code of Conduct.

e. A student must surrender his or her ID card to any staff

member upon the staff member‘s request. Failure or refusal to do

so is considered a serious offense and is punishable under the

Student Code of Conduct.

f. Cadets who forget their ID cards must obtain a $1.00

temporary ID from the attendance office. A temporary ID is valid

only for the day on which it is issued.

g. If a cadet does not have money for purchasing a temporary ID,

a debt of $1 is generated on the student‘s account. A temporary ID

is created immediately for the student. A permanent ID is created

for the student to be retrieved from the Main Office during the

morning of the following school day.

6. Telephones. No provision exists for paging cadets for

incoming calls except in the case of family emergency. Office and

classroom telephones are reserved for use by staff members

conducting official school business. All staff members have a

VOICE MAIL box and a CPS email account. For emergency

situations, cadets are to use the Main Office telephones.

7. Cell Phones. Use of cell phones in the building during school

hours (6:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) is strictly prohibited. Cell phone

waivers are requested by parents in writing to the Academy

Superintendent. However, all cadet cell phones must be turned off

and placed in the locker. Students in violation of the cell phone

policy will be disciplined. The first violation will result in

confiscation of the cell phone for 7 days and a parent or guardian

must pick up the phone after 7 days. A second violation of the cell

phone policy will result in an out-of-school suspension. A second

violation by a cadet, whether the device is the same or a different


37

device, will result in confiscation until the last day of the school

year.

In order to possess a cell phone within the building, all cadets must

have a 2013/2014 cell phone contract, signed by a parent, on file

with the Counseling Office. Cadets in possession of a cell phone

during school hours without a signed contract on file may become

ineligible for cell phone privileges and are subject to further

disciplinary measures, including out of school suspensions. The cell

phone policy is subject to change at any time if the administration

deems it is in the best interest of the Academy.

8. Electronic Devices. Use of personal electronic devices,

including but not limited to beepers, radios, lasers, game players and

personal audio/visual devices (MP3, iPod, earbud, etc.), like cell

phones, is strictly prohibited in the building during school hours

(6:30am – 4:00pm). Any such device brought into the building is

subject to confiscation by Academy staff. If brought to school,

personal electronic devices must be turned off and placed in the

locker upon entry to the building, including the Dining Facility.

Students in violation of this policy will be disciplined. The first

violation will result in confiscation of the device for seven (7) days

and a parent/guardian must pick up the device after seven (7) days.

A second violation will result in an out-of-school suspension. A

second violation by a cadet, whether the device is the same or a

different device (including cell phones), will result in confiscation

until the last day of the school year. This policy is subject to change

at any time if the Academy administration deems it is in the best

interest of the Academy.

9. Food Items. For reasons of public health and sanitation

Cadets are prohibited from bringing food items into the building.

This prohibition includes cadets afforded off campus lunch

privileges. Exceptions to this rule include cadets who wish to bring

their own, personal lunch to school. Any personal lunch brought to

school cannot be stored in a locker and must be kept in the Academy

Dining Facility until the cadet‘s authorized lunch period.

Food items purchased during the school day from authorized

vendors may not be removed from the room in which the items were

purchased. Examples of such purchases include the Academy

Commissary in the Dining Facility and the Concession Stand during

sporting events held in the Drill Hall.


38

Any exceptions to the food item prohibition not previously

mentioned shall be granted by the Academy administration on a case

by case basis.

10. Cadet Deportment To and From the Academy. Any cadet

on the street or on public transportation is in the public eye and,

because all cadets are required to wear the Chicago Military

Academy uniform to and from school, many citizens are fully aware

that they belong to CMA-B. Cadets must behave in a manner that is

reflective of the Academy. Cadets must observe all laws, respect the

properties of others, and show courtesy to and consideration for

others. Whenever it is possible to do so, CMA-B cadets should be

willing to assist those who have experienced some misfortune or are

in distress. Additionally, cadets have rights as citizens and are

encouraged to report any violations of student rights to school

authorities so that your trip to school is safe and respectful. Cadets

are reminded that when CTA buses arrive at the end of the school

day, they should be boarded in an expeditious and orderly manner.

At all times cadets must respect the personal dignity and property of

others.

a. Walk on the sidewalk. Respect the lawns, gardens and

shrubbery of our neighbors.

b. Do not damage the property of others or loiter on porches or

lawns.

c. Do not cluster in groups which might block the easy passage

of neighbors using the sidewalk or crossing the street.

d. Do not throw food, bottles, wrappings or paper on the lawns,

porches or gardens of our neighbors.

e. Do not engage in representative activities, particularly those

involving students from other schools.

11. Locks and Lockers. Ownership of lockers is maintained by

the school district. Students are granted limited use of the lockers

solely in accordance with this established policy. The only items

that may be placed in a locker are articles of clothing, school books

or supplies relating to school use and personal items which the

student is legally entitled to have in his or her possession. Rules

governing the use of lockers and locks are as follows:

a. During the student‘s school day the locker may be entered

during the regular passing time and before or after school only. In


39

an emergency, a student may obtain a locker pass from the a

classroom teacher or Academy administrator.

b. Locks and locker problems should be reported to the

appropriate JROTC instructor for resolution.

c. Cadets must keep the lockers assigned to them. They cannot

move their belongings to any other locker to which they are not

assigned. Any student found using a locker other than the one

assigned will be subject to disciplinary action.

d. Only issued locks are permitted on lockers within the

Academy building. Locks are sold during Orientation.

Replacement locks may be obtained through the Main Office.

e. Lockers are not private property and are subject to inspection

at any time. Locker clean ups are held periodically to give

students an opportunity to clean their lockers and to dispose of

accumulated refuse.

f. Cadets must place outer garments in their lockers. Outdoor

uniform items shall not be worn in class.

g. Cadets should never leave their lockers unlocked. Items of

great value should not be stored in lockers. Lock combinations are

not to be shared with fellow cadets at any time.

h. No posters, stickers, or decorations are to be attached to the

outside or inside of the locker doors. Items such as pictures,

mirrors, etc. should not be permanently affixed to the inside of the

locker doors.

I. References

1. CPS Policy Handbook;

http://policy.cps.k12.il.us/Policies.aspx

2. CPS Military Academy Guidelines

3. JROTC Organization, Administration, Operation, Training

and Support, CCR 145-2

4. Wear and Appearance of Army Uniforms and Insignia, AR

670-1

http://policy.cps.k12.il.us/Policies.aspx


40

Cadet Creed

I am an Army Junior ROTC Cadet.

I will always conduct myself to bring credit to my family,

country, school and the Corps of Cadets.

I am loyal and patriotic.

I am the future of the United States of America.

I do not lie, cheat or steal and will always be accountable for

my actions and deeds.

I will always practice good citizenship and patriotism.

I will work hard to improve my mind and strengthen my body.

I will seek the mantle of leadership and stand prepared to

uphold the Constitution and the American way of life.

May God grant me the strength to always live by this creed.

Building Leaders . . .

One Cadet at a Time.

at bronzeville - chicago military academy · 9/16/2013 · bronzeville mission the chicago...

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