Cadet Life

See how SJN’s safe, structured residential life builds independence, character, and confidence.

Find your Home at SJN

Where structure creates freedom to excel. Cadets live in gender-separate barracks with adult supervision and clear standards for room care, personal appearance, and dress. Weekly communications set uniform expectations and schedules. Cadets learn to prepare, present, and maintain their uniforms, and they receive coaching from peers, TACs, and JROTC instructors.

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aidin richards service award

Richards Receives "Service Above Self"

St. John’s Northwestern (SJN) senior Aidan Richards has been awarded the Lake Country Rotary Club’s “Service Above Self” Award and Scholarship, a distinction recognizing students who exemplify exceptional leadership, strong character, and a lifelong commitment to service.

Aidan’s dedication to his school, community, and country is evident in his impressive record of accomplishments. At SJN, he has completed over 176 hours of community service, is a member of the National Honor Society, earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and serves as a leader in the JROTC Corps of Cadets. Outside of school, he continues to serve his community as a church acolyte.

2024 Labor Day cookout Girls

How SJN Nurtures Independence

Boarding schools offer a unique environment where students not only excel academically but also develop crucial life skills such as independence and responsibility. At St. John’s Northwestern (SJN), these qualities are woven into every aspect of student life, from the classroom to the dormitory and beyond. By providing a structured yet supportive environment, SJN empowers students to grow into self-reliant, capable individuals prepared for the challenges of college and life beyond.

Living in a boarding school environment like SJN instills a sense of self-discipline in students. The school’s emphasis on structure and routine teaches students to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.

Cadet Life

Cadets follow a structured schedule designed to balance academics, leadership training, physical fitness, and extracurriculars. Mornings begin with formation, followed by classes, athletics, evening study hall, and personal time before lights out. This routine builds discipline, responsibility, and time-management skills.

Male cadets live in their own barracks, while female cadets reside in separate barracks. Each company has a dedicated TAC (Trainer, Advisor, Coach)—an adult mentor, often with a military background—who provides guidance, oversight, and serves as a bridge between cadets, faculty, and parents.

Cadets are expected to keep their rooms orderly and participate in regular inspections. Personal appearance is also a priority: uniforms must be properly worn and maintained, shoes polished, haircuts neat, and hygiene up to standard. These daily habits instill self-discipline and pride.

Drill is practiced regularly, often several times a week, with additional sessions in preparation for formal events. Cadets perform in four to five parades each year, including Family Weekends, Alumni Weekend, and Commencement, showcasing their discipline, teamwork, and pride to the broader community.

Yes. Alongside their structured schedule, cadets enjoy time for clubs, athletics, and activities like Raiders, Silver Rifles, Color Guard, and band. Weekends often include recreational options, campus events, or off-campus trips. This balance ensures students not only grow academically and as leaders, but also enjoy a vibrant school community.

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