Through partnerships with middle and high schools, Civil Air Patrol’s Cadet Program is fulfilling its mission of developing tomorrow’s aerospace leaders.
CAP offers schools an exciting form of character education that uses the students’ enthusiasm for aviation, space, and technology as a motivator. An Air Force-affiliated after school program*, high schools find Civil Air Patrol a low-cost alternative to Junior ROTC. Middle schools find that the challenge of cadet life provides the structure early adolescents need. A middle school CAP squadron can be a great complement to a high school JROTC program.
Air Force Affiliation
Cadets are never obligated to join the military, nor does CAP attempt to recruit cadets for the armed forces. However, the uniform, military customs and courtesies, and drill and ceremonies are important features of cadet life that contribute to individual self-discipline. Moreover, 10% of the cadets at the Air Force Academy got their start in CAP.
Cadet Advancement
The Cadet Program is a self-paced program of sixteen achievements. Cadets complete one task in each element of cadet life — leadership, aerospace, fitness, and character — during each achievement. There is a degree of academic rigor to the program; cadets study their textbooks and must pass written tests to advance. Along the way, cadets earn promotions, acquire new leadership responsibilities, and collect awards.
Adding Value to the School
Some of the benefits students and schools receive by partnering with CAP include:
| Students Develop leadership skills
Experience the thrill of flying
Test-fly potential careers
Earn rank and awards
Qualify for college scholarships
Solidify their moral character
Make friends and have fun | The School Strengthens students' discipline
Reduces referrals
Offers an alternative to drugs and violence
Boosts attendance through high student morale
Acquires new opportunities for peer mentoring
Improves student participation in community service
Provides meaningful after-school activity |
| * Some schools choose to conduct the CAP Cadet Program as an in-school elective class. CAP National Headquarters will continue to support those existing programs but is now encouraging new schools to operate as an after school program. |
Classroom Resources
- Leadership
- Aerospace
- Character
- Physical Fitness
- Other
CAP School Programs Point of Contact
Susan Mallett 877.227.9142 x404
Cadets at School | 24-Month Schedule | Lesson Plans
