Preparing for the Future: Missouri Military Academy Cadets Learn Life Skills

At Missouri Military Academy (MMA), the approach to education extends far beyond traditional academics. Under the guidance of MMA instructor Chris Schafer ’89, cadets are delving into a curriculum that covers a spectrum of practical life skills. From basic household tasks to financial literacy, the Life Skills class offers a comprehensive toolkit for navigating the complexities of adulthood. With the incorporation of guest speakers, the class adds depth and real-world insight to the cadets' learning experience. 

Cadets in Chris Schafer's Life Skills class practice hand sewing. 

“The reason I took this class is for the skills that I feel we miss out on being a cadet here at MMA,” says senior Cadet Connor Moore. “The most important lesson we have gone over in class would have been the shopping and price comparison lessons. For those, we were in groups and had to create a meal plan for a family for seven days and then price clothing for certain events. And yes, I do believe that all cadets should take this class. In this class, you go over everything that I believe is needed to start off on the right foot when you leave MMA.”

Life skills classes are not only about academic excellence but also about equipping cadets with essential life skills. These classes, now taught with a blend of traditional methods and modern technology, ensure that cadets are well-prepared for the challenges they may face in the future.

Recently, the Life Skills class hosted Frank Marth, a local Shelter Insurance Agent and member of the Mexico Chamber of Commerce. Marth shared invaluable knowledge on topics ranging from automobile insurance to home and renters insurance. His engaging discussion emphasized the importance of understanding risk factors and how they impact insurance rates, enlightening cadets on practical aspects of financial planning.

President of the MMA Alumni Association, Gregg Center '91, guest spoke to the Life Skills class, offering wisdom on the real estate market. 

In another session, Gregg Center '91, president of the MMA Alumni Association, offered expertise on real estate markets and transactions. Drawing from his experience as a top realtor in Sarasota, Florida, Center provided cadets with insights into the intricacies of the housing market. From the selection of a real estate agent to the nuances of property appreciation, his presentation equipped cadets with essential knowledge for future real estate endeavors. Center even took the class to an MMA-owned vacant residence near campus so they could analyze the home from buyer and seller perspectives. 

Greg Center '91 took cadets to an MMA-owned vacant residence near campus to explain how to analyze a property from buyer and seller perspectives.

Beyond financial literacy and real estate, cadets are also honing practical skills such as clothing care and laundering. In a special demonstration, Dean Mike Harding led cadets through a class where they learned the ironing standards set by the Royal Marines. 

“I took this class to learn things that I didn't know at the time and could improve on the things I did know,” says senior Cadet Aaron Elford. “The most important thing that I learned this far was knowing how to give a proper handshake. I would suggest that cadets take this class because not everyone knows what to do on some of the many things we learn in class."

As MMA continues its focus on holistic education, the Life Skills class underscores its commitment to preparing cadets not just academically, but also for life beyond the classroom. Through the generous donations of alumni like Hunter Jenkins '85, who provided irons and ironing boards, cadets have access to quality resources. With a blend of traditional values and modern approaches, MMA remains dedicated to shaping well-rounded, resilient individuals ready for success.