At R-MA, we pride ourselves on helping students develop a strong sense of self, the confidence to take the lead, and mastery over many valuable skills. Though R-MA students learn self-efficacy and independence, they’re also taught the importance of collaboration. We know that strong teamwork prepares students for academic, professional, and personal success.
Strong collaboration skills help students benefit from diverse skills and knowledge, better relationships, and an increased capacity to reach big, complex goals. Our Character & Leadership Development Program is particularly designed to foster an appreciation for teamwork and strengthen social skills. Keep reading to discover how cadet leadership at R-MA will help your child develop highly transferable collaboration capabilities.
Code of Conduct, Military Courtesy, and Drill Instills Respect for Community
R-MA instills collaboration skills and respect for others through the code of conduct, military courtesy, and drill track of our Character & Leadership Development Program. This track teaches students about accountability and responsible decision-making within a community. Military traditions emphasize respect and discipline, which are essential for teamwork and positive relationships.
This is exemplified by the Yellow Jackets Drill Team, led by Coach TSgt Tina Laing, who credits the cadets’ family commitment, strong work ethic, and solid team morals with their ongoing success. These activities foster drill skills, life skills, leadership, and a commitment to teamwork. Through these experiences, R-MA prepares its students to be effective communicators, leaders, and respectful members of a collaborative community.
Cadet Leadership Teaches the Intricacies of Group Dynamics and Effective Teamwork
As part of the Character & Leadership Development Program, our Principles of Leadership track equips students with a profound understanding of group dynamics and essential collaboration skills through four key modules. “The Synergy of Followership and Leadership” focuses on the interplay between being a leader and a follower, highlighting the importance of trust and communication.
In “Ethical Decision-Making,” cadets learn to navigate moral dilemmas with integrity, developing critical thinking skills. “Adaptive Leadership” prepares them to lead amidst change and uncertainty, fostering adaptability and resilience. Lastly, “Creating a Positive Team Culture” teaches the creation of collaborative and respectful team environments.
These modules provide cadets with a comprehensive understanding of leadership, ethical decision-making, adaptability, and team culture, essential for effective teamwork and leadership in various settings. These highly transferable skills prime each cadet for lifelong success in all endeavors.
The Character & Leadership Development Program Encourages Group Cohesion
Group cohesion is vital in a community as it fosters a sense of belonging and unity, enabling members to work harmoniously towards common goals. This cohesion strengthens the community’s ability to overcome challenges, enhances mutual support, and encourages collective problem-solving, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes for the community.
To encourage group cohesion within our private school community, cadets participate in CLDP training four days a week, attending classes with their unit rather than by class year. This structure promotes leadership and mentorship opportunities within the unit, enhancing unit cohesion, goal setting, and developing leadership and followership skills.
Additionally, the Cadre Summer Leadership School, designed for rising juniors and seniors, further reinforces these principles. Here, students engage in activities such as basic drill instruction, team building, and educational visits to significant locations like D.C. monuments and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These experiences equip cadets with practical leadership skills and strengthen their sense of unity and collective identity, which are crucial for effective collaboration and team cohesion at R-MA.
Ready to explore how our cadet leadership promotes college readiness success?
Contact Randolph-Macon Academy to learn more!