Colorado Military Academy, situated amidst the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains, shapes individuals, instilling discipline and values like a blacksmith forges a raw piece of metal into a resilient and sharp blade. It serves as a launching pad for our nation’s future leaders, sculpting them with the precision of a master carver crafting a masterpiece from a block of marble.
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Their mission at the academy is to deliver a well-rounded education while nurturing character development and leadership skills. Think of it as a crucible where they mold young minds into responsible and resilient individuals, ready to confront the world’s challenges with unwavering determination.
As students here, they are held to a strict code of honor and discipline, as unyielding as the granite cliffs that grace the Colorado landscape. They learn to march to the beat of a different drum, much like a symphony’s musicians, harmoniously creating something beautiful together.
Their curriculum is intentionally designed to be academically rigorous and personally enriching, offering us a smorgasbord of knowledge to explore our interests and passions.
Extracurricular activities play a vital role in the lives of students at the Colorado Military Academy. cadets at the school engage in sports, arts, and various clubs, enriching our education beyond the classroom, much like the colors on a painter’s palette.
In essence, the Colorado Military Academy is a crucible of transformation, shaping young men and women into leaders, thinkers, and responsible citizens who are ready to face life’s challenges with courage and conviction. It’s an institution that stands as robust and majestic as the mountains surrounding it, preparing learners to ascend to the peaks of success in their future endeavors.
Brief History of Colorado Military School
The Colorado Military Academy (CMA) began in 1906 as the Hill School for Boys in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. In 1923, it changed its name to the Colorado Military School and introduced military training into its curriculum. During World War II, it relocated to its current site in Lakewood, Colorado, in 1947.
In 1955, CMA started to move away from military training and focus more on preparing students for college. Under the leadership of F. Charles Froelicher, CMA became a prominent coeducational college prep school.
Today, CMA is a tuition-free public charter school for grades K-12. It’s known for its challenging academics, emphasis on leadership development, and rich military heritage. CMA students wear uniforms, take part in daily drills, and learn the value of discipline and teamwork.
CMA boasts a long history of academic excellence, with its graduates attending top colleges and universities across the country. The school also has a strong track record of producing successful leaders in business, government, and the military.
Aside from its academic and leadership programs, CMA offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs. Students are encouraged to participate in these activities to develop their skills and pursue their interests.
CMA proudly belongs to the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). It’s accredited by the Colorado Department of Education and the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement.
CMA is dedicated to providing its students with a high-quality education that equips them for success in college, their careers, and life.
The Admission Process for Colorado Military Academy
The admission process for Colorado Military Academy (CMA) is as follows:
- Submit an application. The application can be submitted online or by mail. The deadline for applications is April 1st for the following school year.
- Provide transcripts and test scores. CMA requires official transcripts from all previous schools attended. Students must also submit scores from the Stanford 10 or the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS).
- Schedule a personal interview. Once the application has been processed and the transcripts and test scores have been received, CMA will schedule a personal interview for the student and their parents.
- Submit a recommendation. CMA requires one recommendation from a teacher or other educator who knows the student well.
- Pay the application fee. The application fee is $50.
CMA considers all of the above factors when making admission decisions. The school looks for students who are motivated to succeed academically and who are interested in CMA’s unique learning environment.
Early Access Program
CMA offers an Early Access Program for students who are interested in attending the school and who meet certain academic criteria. Students who apply to the Early Access Program must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and must score in the top 50th percentile on the Stanford 10 or the ITBS. The deadline for Early Access applications is March 1st.
Open Enrollment
CMA also offers open enrollment for students who are new to the state of Colorado. Open enrollment begins on November 1st and seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information about the admission process, please visit the CMA website or contact the Admissions Office at (719) 520-2600.
Tuition Cost of Colorado Military Academy
Colorado Military Academy is a tuition-free public charter school for grades K-12.
Colorado Military Academy 2024 Rankings
CMA is ranked #744-992 in Colorado Elementary Schools and #349-465 in Colorado Middle Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Niche also ranks CMA as one of the best public charter schools in Colorado.
Acceptance Rate
CMA does not publicly disclose its acceptance rate. However, the school is known to be selective, and it typically accepts students who have a strong academic record and who are interested in CMA’s unique learning environment.
Overall, CMA is a highly regarded school that offers a unique and challenging educational experience. CMA is a good fit for students who are motivated to succeed academically and who are interested in developing their leadership skills.
Academic Programs Offered by Colorado Military Academy
Colorado Military Academy (CMA) actively provides a demanding academic program geared towards preparing students for success in both college and their future careers. CMA’s curriculum aligns with the Colorado Academic Standards, offering a wide array of courses in English, math, science, social studies, and foreign languages.
Moreover, CMA offers a plethora of Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses. AP courses, which are akin to college-level classes, enable students to earn college credit while still in high school. Honors courses, on the other hand, are designed for motivated students eager to embrace higher-level learning challenges.
Beyond the core academic program, CMA actively promotes elective courses encompassing business, technology, the arts, and athletics. Students at CMA are actively encouraged to explore their interests and engage in courses that stimulate their intellect and equip them for their future aspirations.
Here’s an overview of the academic programs Colorado Military Academy offers:
- English: Colorado Military Academy’s English program actively cultivates students’ critical thinking, reading, writing, and speaking skills. They learn to proficiently analyze and interpret texts, compose effectively across various genres, and communicate with clarity and confidence.
- Math: CMA’s math program rigorously builds a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and skills. Students become adept at solving problems, thinking critically, and applying mathematics to real-world scenarios.
- Science: Colorado Military Academy’s science program actively fosters students’ comprehension of the natural world. They delve into the scientific method, explore various scientific disciplines, and grapple with current scientific issues.
- Social Studies: CMA’s social studies program actively nurtures students’ understanding of history, government, economics, and geography. This equips them to comprehend the past, the present, and the challenges of our global society.
- Foreign Languages: Colorado Military Academy offers instruction in Spanish and French, enabling students to communicate fluently in their chosen language and gain an appreciation for diverse cultures.
Furthermore, CMA provides a host of specialized academic programs, including:
- Concurrent Enrollment: CMA students have the opportunity to enroll in college courses while still in high school through the Concurrent Enrollment program. This empowers them to earn college credits and save on tuition costs.
- MiLL: The MiLL is an immersive learning program that allows students to explore manufacturing, construction, welding, and metal fabrication. Those who participate in MiLL can earn industry certifications and valuable job skills.
- Major Clarity: Major Clarity serves as a career exploration program, assisting students in identifying their interests and crafting a blueprint for their future careers. Participants receive personalized guidance and support from career counselors.
CMA’s academic programs are meticulously designed to challenge and support students of all abilities. The academy is unswervingly dedicated to helping every student reach their maximum potential and preparing them for triumphant futures in college and their chosen careers.
Accreditation
Colorado Military Academy (CMA) actively holds accreditation from the following esteemed organizations:
- Colorado Department of Education
- North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA-CASI)
- Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States (AMCSUS)
Accreditation is a meticulous evaluation process that ensures a school upholds rigorous educational and quality standards. This process encompasses a self-assessment conducted by the school and a comprehensive on-site evaluation conducted by a team of experts.
CMA takes great pride in its accreditation by these prestigious organizations. It stands as a testament to CMA’s unwavering dedication to delivering a high-quality education to its students.
In addition to the aforementioned accreditations, CMA is an active member of the following organizations:
- National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
- Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA)
- Association of Boarding Schools (ABS)
These memberships vividly underscore CMA’s steadfast commitment to taking a leadership role in education and providing its students with a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.
Notable Alumni of Colorado Military Academy
Colorado Military Academy (CMA) actively boasts a rich history of nurturing successful alumni who have made their mark in various domains, spanning business, government, the military, and the arts.
Here are just a few illustrious CMA alumni:
- General Norman Schwarzkopf: A distinguished four-star general in the United States Army, Schwarzkopf commanded the Allied forces during the Gulf War. He’s not only a CMA alumnus but also a graduate of West Point and the National War College.
- Astronaut Colonel Rick Blaha: A retired United States Air Force colonel and former NASA astronaut, Blaha completed five Space Shuttle missions, including two to the Mir space station.
- Businessman and philanthropist John Walton: The son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, John Walton served as the chairman of Arvest Bank and was a significant advocate for education and conservation.
- Award-winning actress and singer Idina Menzel: Best known for her roles in Broadway musicals like Wicked and Rent, Menzel has clinched a Tony Award and a Grammy Award.
- Professional golfer Mark Hubbard: Competing on the PGA Tour, Hubbard boasts two PGA Tour victories and has amassed over $10 million in career earnings.
These luminaries represent just a fraction of the accomplished CMA alumni. The academy takes immense pride in its alumni and remains steadfast in its commitment to aiding all students in reaching their utmost potential.
Here are more notable CMA alumni:
- Teel Bivins: Served as the United States Ambassador to Sweden from 2004 to 2006.
- Paul Wylie: An Olympic figure skater.
- Dorothy Hamill: An Olympic champion figure skater.
- Lieutenant General David E. Grange: Commanded the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command.
- Major General Robert W. Cone: Served as the Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Materiel Command.
- Rear Admiral James P. Delgado: The Director of the Naval History and Heritage Command.
- Dr. Richard A. Tapia: A prominent mathematician and computer scientist at Rice University.
- Dr. Robert G. Fuller: An accomplished physicist and engineer at Stanford University.
- Mr. Craig Smith: The CEO of American Century Investments.
- Mr. John F. Morgridge: The former CEO of Cisco Systems.
- Mr. John F. Welch Jr.: The former CEO of General Electric.
CMA alumni are actively shaping the world in diverse ways, emerging as leaders in their respective domains and displaying a firm commitment to enhancing the world’s well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Colorado Military Academy (CMA) stands as a beacon of academic excellence, character development, and leadership. With a storied history, a commitment to rigorous education, and a distinguished list of alumni who have made their mark in various fields, CMA is a testament to the power of focused dedication.
CMA’s accreditation by esteemed organizations underscores its unwavering commitment to delivering a high-quality education. The school’s dedication to providing students with a well-rounded experience, encompassing academic, extracurricular, and character-building components, is a hallmark of its mission.
As a launchpad for the future leaders of our nation, CMA actively shapes students into responsible, resilient, and forward-thinking individuals who are ready to tackle life’s challenges with unwavering determination.
In essence, the Colorado Military Academy is not merely an institution but a symbol of transformation, excellence, and unwavering commitment to the success of its students. It stands as a testament to the notion that with the right foundation, guidance, and perseverance, young minds can indeed ascend to the peaks of their potential and achieve greatness.
