The CAP class specifically focuses on the practice of aviation, emergency response and important skills. Cadets in this class have the opportunity to grow in leadership, develop physical endurance while also emphasizing core values and ethical behaviors. In this program, cadets participate in hands-on experiences designed to exchange their own skills, performance, and both physical and personal growth within the class.
Sophomore cadet Abigail Eldridge said, “CAP teaches leadership as one of its main CORE values. One example of this is the acronym RISE – Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence; which are taught to cadets who are learning to lead”.
A typical CAP class is very flexible, cadets have the choice of structuring what their week may look like based on certain activities required by CAP. Each week cadets get to take part in drill exercises, leadership, physical activities, games and team building activities. Occasionally throughout the month, cadets participate in aerospace education, safety briefing, module work, STEM projects and many other teamwork-based activities.
Cathedral’s CAP squadron host monthly team breakfasts where one gets the chance to bring in any breakfast item and enjoy playing games or trivia while eating together. This program emphasizes teamwork and leadership, ensuring that every cadet feels included and engaged regardless of skill and ability.
If cadets take full advantage of CAP’s resources, they open up new opportunities such as working towards earning a pilot’s license through the Air Force. By taking CAP, cadets are offered 5 free oriented flights in a Cessna 172 allowing a basic understanding of flying an aircraft with an instructor. Over the summer, Cadets can attend encampments where they partake in hands-on military experiences and gain insight of what it means to have leadership through fun and educational activities.
This class gives cadets the opportunity to take field trips with their squadron to places like the Dayton Air Force Museum and local flight simulators.
Civil Air Patrol teacher Robert Kouril said, “Students can also pursue a private pilot’s license through the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Wings Program. The program offers scholarships to help pay for flight training”.
This class helps young people with skills in leadership, responsibility, and essential skills by handing cadets hands-on experiences relating to planning and organizing. At least once a year, every cadet has to take on the responsibility of creating a monthly schedule, creating and presenting a safety briefing and organizing a class period full of fun games and activities.
Drill instruction techniques are rigorously practiced with the goal of advancing rank and enhancing individuals skills. This class builds up confidence in each cadet and instills confidence, leadership and perseverance.
Kouril said, “The Civil Air Patrol’s cadet program transforms students into dynamic citizens and aerospace leaders”. Not only does this class equip students with valuable skills but it also shapes them into dynamic leaders, preparing them to excel in both service and innovation.
