FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Welcome, Families!

This space is for you. We’re proud to offer an exceptional program focused on developing the next generation of leaders—and we ask for your best in return.

We seek families who value grit, resilience, and long-term growth. Bring us your effort, your honesty, and your commitment.

What we’re not looking for:

• Perfection isn’t required—authenticity is. No need to hide struggles, but no need to exaggerate success either.

• Shortcuts to accolades won’t work here. Sea Cadets is a long-haul journey, not a fast track to awards or appointments.

• Behavior fixes don’t belong. We’re here to build leaders, not to correct discipline issues.

Together, we create a culture of integrity, hard work, and purpose. Let’s raise the standard—together.

My child is in other activities. Can they miss drill for events, competitions or trips?

We value well-rounded cadets and support involvement in sports, academics, and other pursuits. However, Sea Cadets is a commitment—just like being on a sports team. You wouldn’t ask a coach to miss game day, and we ask the same respect for drill.

Drill attendance is critical. Each absence delays your cadet’s advancement, as they only earn credit for work completed. Unexcused absences include practices, competitions, and family trips. Our drill schedule is posted a year in advance to help avoid conflicts.

Cadets must submit an absence request via Spond or our online form. If they’re mature enough to be a Top Hatter, they’re capable of managing this responsibility.

To stay in good standing, cadets must attend at least 75% of mandatory drills. Dropping below that may result in probation, requiring perfect attendance and full program participation to recover.

Sea Cadets builds more than leaders—it builds character through commitment.

Is My Cadet Ready to Be Away From Home?

If your cadet isn’t yet comfortable staying overnight without incident, it’s best to wait until they are. Top Hatters drills include overnight stays, and consistent participation is essential for success.

NSCC cadets are required to attend overnight trainings each year—this is not optional. Confidence, independence, and readiness are key to thriving in this program. We’ll be here when they’re ready.

Why Should My Child Join a Program With Such High Standards?

Because leadership isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged through challenge.

The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps is more than a youth program. We are a leadership crucible, rooted in military principles, designed to shape young men and women into disciplined, confident, and capable leaders. Our expectations are high—because your cadet’s potential is even higher.

We expect parents to fully engage by reading and understanding all communications—whether from our unit or National Headquarters. If you prioritize messages from sports, dance, or school, but neglect Sea Cadet guidance, you’re limiting your cadet’s growth. Success here depends on unity between cadets, families, and leadership.

We challenge cadets intentionally:

• Uniforms are earned, not issued.

• Failure is expected—and embraced. Cadets are placed in situations where they may fall short. That’s by design.

• Leadership is not given—it’s proven. Rank must be earned through action, not time.

• Public speaking, boarding, and command presence are all part of advancement. Growth requires stepping forward, even when it’s uncomfortable.

We create a safe space to fail, reflect, and recover. That’s how confidence is built. Cadets are supported, but they must also seek help and rise on their own strength.

This program is not about perfection—it’s about progress. If your cadet is always winning, they’re not being tested hard enough.

We don’t promise easy. We promise opportunity.

Your Role as a Parent, Guardian, or Caregiver

Your involvement is vital to your cadet’s success—and to the strength of our unit. Here’s how you can lead from the home front:

• Complete the Parent Portal on Day One.
  This is your first step in joining the team. It gives us the essential information needed to support your cadet safely and effectively.

• Keep Medical Information Updated.
  Anytime there’s a change—new medication, immunizations, emergency contacts, ER visits, or training applications—please update the portal. It’s about your cadet’s safety and our commitment to compliance. World-class training deserves world-class care.

• Support Commitment and Readiness.
  Cadets must show up with purpose. If participation is a constant battle, this program may not be the right fit at this time. We expect cadets to take ownership of their attendance and effort—not to be pushed out the door.

• Keep Sick Cadets Home.
  If your cadet has a fever, flu, is contagious, or physically unfit for the day’s activities (including climbing stairs), please keep them home to rest and recover.

• Focus on Accountability—Not Excuses.
  Life happens, but we strive for a culture of responsibility. Honest communication and proactive planning go a long way.

• Encourage Exploration.
  If your cadet’s goals shift—whether academically or career-wise—support them. This program is about discovery, growth, and leadership through exploration.

Want to Get Involved?

Yes—you are welcome! We have roles for every skill set and schedule:

• On-site help: photographers, snack providers, shuttle drivers, drill support, building maintenance.

• Behind the scenes: fundraising, social media, community engagement.

If you can stay overnight, even once a quarter, that makes a big difference. Whether once a year or every month—your time matters. Speak with the Commanding Officer to find the best fit.

Together, we build more than cadets—we build leaders, and it starts with you.