Military Families

Welcoming Military Families at SMA

Taking care of our military families is a top priority at Sarasota Military Academy (SMA). We provide a supportive and welcoming environment for students in grades 6-12 across two campuses, rooted in character and leadership development through a values-rich education and experience. For military students and their families, transitioning into our community is a natural fit, offering familiarity, shared interests, and an atmosphere that reinforces these principles.

To learn more, please fill out your contact information so we can reach out personally to invite you to a campus tour!

Transition Planning for Military Families

Sarasota Military Academy is dedicated to working with military families to ensure every transition is welcoming, supportive, and as easy as possible. Our Admissions Office partners closely with the JROTC department, administration, and the registrar to provide a smooth adjustment into our 4x4 block schedule at the high school and our Military Studies program at the middle school.

SMA-CPT Angela Cohen, Admissions and Community Outreach Director, serves as the point of contact and is committed to making this process seamless for every family.

Academic Planning for Military Families

SMA is committed to supporting military families by ensuring every student's academic transition is smooth and successful. Our school counselors work closely with families to align challenging classes and graduation requirements, making sure each student stays on track. In addition, our attentive exceptional Student Education (ESE) services on both campuses provide individualized support and resources for students who may need additional assistance to thrive.

Resources and Educational Opportunities for Military Students

SMA provides a welcoming and nurturing environment of character and leadership development rooted in the Army core values of Respect, Integrity, and Honor. With 100% JROTC participation, our JROTC department at the high school and Military Studies at the middle school shape the culture of both campuses, creating a supportive atmosphere where every student belongs. Cadets benefit from meaningful student leadership opportunities, along with access to resources and educational experiences designed to help military students thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Our JROTC department requires a minimum of 20 years of service before employment, resulting in over 100 years of military experience that drive our SMA culture on both campuses.

Student-Led Transition Team

Our student-led transition team, built through SMA's cadet leadership structure, mentors new students and underclassmen, helping them adjust and thrive within our school community. A dedicated team of students from active duty families leads this initiative, ensuring that military students and their families are welcomed and experience a smooth, supportive transition. In addition, our Ambassador Team works directly with prospective military families, providing firsthand guidance and resources to make their transition seamless and well-informed.

Support for Military ESE Students

SMA's ESE department is dedicated to the well-being of our military students, supporting their mental, physical, and academic growth. Our resources accommodate a wide range of services, including programs, supplemental supports, and accommodations designed to ensure academic success. Students whose needs can be met in a regular classroom environment receive at least 80% of their instruction alongside non-disabled peers, fostering inclusion and engagement.

Military Recognition Events

At SMA, we believe that understanding and respecting those who fight for our freedoms is a cornerstone of character development. Patriotism and selfless service are instilled through meaningful military recognition events that are part of our school's foundation. Cadets honor veterans and service members in a variety of ways, including participating as a whole academy in Veterans and Memorial Day parades, flag retirement ceremonies, service learning projects, Purple Up! Day, Armed Forces Day, and partnerships with veterans' organizations.

SMA ensures that recognition and respect for our nation's heroes are woven into the life and culture of our school.

Access to Mental Health Services

SMA is committed to the well-being of our military students, recognizing the unique challenges they may face. We work closely with a variety of contracted services to ensure mental health needs are met switly, compassionately, and effectively. Our resources provide a timely support, counseling, and interventions, helping students navigate transitions, stress, and personal challenges while maintaining their academic and personal success.