When Mr. Smith arrived at the school last year, he enforced many changes for UMA–including the eligibility list. The eligibility list’s purpose is to ensure cadets keep their academics up to the school’s standards. When met, the cadets are allowed to participate in teams.

There are two different types of eligibility lists that are required: one to join a team, and one that is required to stay on a team. The academic requirements to join a team are to have at least a 2.0 GPA and no more than one failed class per term. The second part of the eligibility list is a weekly standard; to meet this standard you must be passing all classes. If a cadet is not passing all classes they will be put on a warning list.

 The eligibility list is part of the commitment that cadets make when joining teams. However, most cadets might think of the eligibility list is an inconvenience or not necessary. Yet, the eligibility list goes further than just making sure grades are up. “Since [weekly] eligibility has been introduced, I stay in sports as motivation to keep my grades up,” remarked a cadet who wishes to remain anonymous.

Even though the standards to meet the eligibility list are extremely reasonable, some cadets will simply resort to leaving a team instead of improving their academics. “If you are actually committed to a team, then having a task as simple as fixing your grades won’t deter you.” Mr. Smith said. If cadets stay in activities even though they have to meet a standard, they will have good grades and also be involved with different hobbies.

“Internalize the core values and you’ll be set for success.” Principal Smith said. Even though the core values are only just words to a majority of cadets, using these core values for what they stand for can lead to an easier and more successful life.