Army Navy Academy Celebrates Centennial

Since 1910, the Army and Navy Academy has transformed thousands of boys into well-rounded men who have gone on to lead rich and purposeful lives, in both the personal and professional aspect.

Army Navy is a college prep, military-style boarding school for young men beginning from grade 7 to grade 12. Orginally established in Pacific Beach, the mere 13 boys that made up the study body and the staff relocated to Carlsbad in 1936. That small 13 has grown to the 300 young men from around the globe who keep the school’s traditions alive while embracing tough, yet nurtured college preparatory curriculum. The core curriculum is modeled to fit the entrance requirements held by the the University of California, which truly prepares the boys for the challenges many face upon university admittance.

On average, the teacher-to-student ratio of 1:10 allows for customized learning strategies, one on one tutoring and working with an instructor on a more personal level. In the Class of 2009, every single graduate was accepted to one or more colleges & universities. "We are proud that more than 90 percent of our graduates attend four- and two-year colleges and universities upon graduation. That puts real meaning in our college prep curriculum," commented Gen. Stephen M. Bliss, president of Army Navy.

All graduates are taught the importance of certain primary values that include, but are not limited to, leadership, excellence, honor, responsibility, loyalty and compassion. However, these are not the only benefits that students receive. "Army Navy teaches more than just the basics of education and leadership, it has allowed me to experience the fundamental skills of life," said Class of 2008 Salutatorian Alex Mui.

Contrasting the traditional military or boarding school image, the Army and Navy Academy houses over 20 buildings across 16.5 acres of land, right next to the ocean. This prime location grants students beachfront access for swimming, water sports, surfing and street hockey. Cadets are also no stranger to the fine arts as Army Navy also offers plenty extracurricular activities, including photography, drama and art courses. The athletic teams, known as the Warriors, participate in 11 varsity sports. These include: football, basketball, baseball, cross-country, wrestling, golf, water polo, soccer, swimming, tennis and track and field.

Preparing to celebrate its centennial, the individuals leading the Army and Navy Academy are greatly anticipating what the next 100 years will have in store for their classic and proud institution.

After receiving the approval from the city of Carlsbad, Army Navy can now pursue their plans of expansion. These involve sizable renovation of current facilities, plus several new ones that will continue to preserve the look and feel of the existing mission-inspired architecture. The new additions will become the home of academic buildings, dorms and also athletic facilities.

With this large scale remodel, the school will only enhance its already classic appearance and further impress visitors and residents alike. "We are proud to carry the torch of all who have gone before us and vow to continue to uphold our mission: To educate and develop young men of good character," Bliss said.