Phone Privileges and Communication: What Parents Need to Know for Fall 2026

As Missouri Military Academy moves into the first few weeks of the fall 2026 semester, cadets are settling into their routines, building connections and focusing on their responsibilities within the corps of cadets. 

During this early part of the semester, communication and cell phone access remain structured as cadets progress through phase training. For families, understanding when and how cadets can communicate can help set expectations during this important period.

Please note that changes may be made at the commandant's discretion. Please contact the Academy with any questions. Thank you!

Cadets have MMA-issued laptops for email and video calls when their schedules allow. Cell phone privileges vary based on each cadet’s phase of training. Here is what families need to know.

About the photos: Without phones in hand, cadets spend time connecting with one another and taking part in corps of cadets' activities. These photos capture the Aug. 14 company dodgeball competition, one of many opportunities for cadets to build camaraderie through shared experiences. Photos by Cadet Jonathan Liberman, this year’s S-5 public affairs cadet officer.

Maroon Phase for New Cadets

New cadets begin their MMA experience in Maroon Phase, an approximately eight-week training period designed to establish baseline standards and provide the knowledge and skills needed for success at the Academy.

Maroon Phase builds motivation, pride and esprit de corps while helping new cadets learn MMA expectations, establish routines and become part of the corps of cadets.

MMA-issued laptops provide limited access to email and video calls during evening hours. During the first several weeks, new cadets follow a full daily schedule as they adjust to Academy life. Families should expect communication with home to be limited during this transition.

Cell phones are not permitted during Maroon Phase, except on Sunday afternoons when cadets have an opportunity to call home.

New cadets earn weekend phone privileges after completing phase requirements and participating in the Passing Through Ceremony during Fall Family Weekend.

Gold Phase for Returning Cadets

Returning cadets enter Gold Phase at the beginning of the school year. This period provides an opportunity to refocus on academics, athletics and cadet life while demonstrating self-discipline, personal responsibility and accountability in meeting MMA standards.

Returning cadets have limited evening access to email and video calls.

Cell phones are not permitted during Gold Phase, except on Sunday afternoons when cadets have an opportunity to call home. Phone privileges are restored when Gold Phase concludes, at the discretion of the commandant.

Phone Privileges After Phase Training

After cadets complete their phase training and earn phone privileges, MMA policy allows each cadet in good standing to have one cell phone and one smartwatch.

Access remains structured throughout the semester. Cadets may check out their devices on Friday evenings and return them on Sunday evenings.

Phones and smartwatches are not permitted in academic buildings, during off-campus classes, at athletic practices or home games, during Sunday services or during MMA Corps of Cadets activities designated by the commandant.

Supporting Cadet Growth

MMA’s structured approach to communication and device access helps cadets focus on academics, leadership, relationships and their responsibilities within the corps of cadets. It also gives cadets opportunities to practice self-discipline and responsible technology use as they earn privileges.

We appreciate the partnership of MMA families as cadets continue through the fall 2026 semester and develop the habits, character and leadership skills that prepare them for college and life.