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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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
17
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,
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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(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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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
The Chicago Military Academy at Bronzeville Handbook for Cadets
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.