First State Military Academy
Clayton, DE
"Learning today, leading tomorrow."
The Verdict
First State Military Academy represents a groundbreaking educational model—the nation's first combination of Marine Corps JROTC and New Tech Network project-based learning. Founded in 2015 on the historic grounds of St. Joseph's Industrial School (established 1896), this tuition-free public charter school proves that military structure and innovative academics can transform students from any background.
As one of only two high schools in America directly supported by the U.S. Marines, FSMA has earned consecutive Naval Honor School recognition, ranking third among 70 MCJROTC programs in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region.
About
A Marine Corps JROTC school combining military structure with New Tech Network project-based learning—students learn through hands-on projects rather than traditional lectures, developing problem-solving skills that align with the Marine Corps ethos of "improvise, adapt, overcome."
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
open
Key Requirements
- Delaware state residency
- Complete online application through SchoolChoiceDE.org
- State-required immunization records
- Valid DIAA sports physical for athletics participation
- Attend mandatory Summer Orientation Camp (SOC)
Admitted Student Profile
3.46
Avg GPA
1050
Avg SAT
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
35 acres
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
433
Student:Teacher
18:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
As a day school, cadets follow a structured schedule that includes morning formation, academic blocks using project-based learning methodology, MCJROTC leadership instruction, physical training, and athletics or extracurricular activities. The Summer Orientation Camp (SOC) runs four days prior to the school year (0800-1530 daily) introducing new cadets to close order drill, physical fitness training, military customs and courtesies, and proper uniform wear.
Discipline Model
Rooted in Marine Corps Core Values of honor, courage, and commitment, the discipline model emphasizes trust, respect, and responsibility. Cadets are evaluated through observation of performance, proficiency, appearance, military bearing, and attention to duty as demonstrated during uniform inspections, close order drill, physical training, physical fitness testing, and other military skills-related events. The cadet rank structure allows students to earn promotions based on performance, leadership, and merit, with senior cadets mentoring younger students.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
73%
Where Graduates Go
As a Naval Honor School, the Senior Marine Instructor can nominate up to six cadets annually to the U.S. Naval Academy, Military Academy at West Point, and U.S. Air Force Academy. These nominations carry equal weight to nominations from U.S. Representatives or Senators.
Hall of Fame
Recent Graduates
Multiple student-athletes have signed to play college sports at institutions including Albright College, Lycoming College, Coker University, and others. Current students have earned over $2.5 million in college scholarships through RaiseMe.
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Daily or weekly physical training integrated into the MCJROTC curriculum ensures cadets meet Marine Corps fitness standards. All cadets participate in leadership education courses that include basic training in physical fitness, drill and ceremonies, and physical fitness testing. First-year cadets (LE-I) complete combined classroom instruction and practical application emphasizing physical fitness alongside leadership development.
Facilities
The 35-acre historic campus in Clayton occupies the former St. Joseph's Industrial School site, featuring three contributing historic buildings including an 1896 Italianate-style Chapel, 1951 Colonial Revival Administration Building, and 1960 St. Michael's Hall. Athletic facilities support the school's comprehensive sports program. The campus includes the historic Entry Arch (1896) and the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
External Ratings
We don't collect or moderate reviews. Links point to trusted third-party sources.
Official Federal Data Sources
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Photo Gallery
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Guides & Resources
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The Cadet Readiness Checklist: Is Your Child Actually Ready?
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The Service Academy & ROTC Roadmap
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