Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership
Jacksonville, FL
"Leadership and Excellence"
The Verdict
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership is the only dedicated military leadership magnet middle school in Duval County. Named after General Joseph Stilwell—the legendary "Vinegar Joe" who commanded Allied forces in the China-Burma-India Theater during World War II—JSMAL prepares cadets for high school military programs and beyond.
Under the leadership of Principal Tamara Roper, a former Army captain and West Point graduate, JSMAL provides a structured environment where cadets develop discipline, leadership, and academic excellence before transitioning to high school JROTC programs.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
Joseph Stilwell Military Academy of Leadership (JSMAL) is a public magnet middle school in Jacksonville, Florida, serving approximately 500 cadets in grades 6-8. Named after General Joseph Stilwell, a highly decorated World War II Army commander and West Point graduate, the school combines rigorous academics with military-style leadership development to prepare students for success in high school JROTC programs and beyond.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
developmental
Key Requirements
- Duval County residency
- Complete magnet application through Duval County Schools
- Rising 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student
- Interest in structured military leadership environment
- Controlled Open Enrollment (COE) allows applications from outside attendance zone
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Shared campus with adjacent park
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
489
Student:Teacher
16:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
As a day school, JSMAL cadets follow a structured academic schedule with military-style leadership training integrated throughout the day. Cadets wear uniforms, participate in formations, and engage in leadership development activities. The school provides a foundation for students planning to continue in high school JROTC programs.
Discipline Model
JSMAL employs a military-style leadership development model emphasizing self-discipline, responsibility, and respect. Cadets operate within a structured chain of command and are expected to uphold standards of conduct, appearance, and academic performance. The program focuses on character development and preparing students for leadership roles in high school and beyond.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
N/A - Middle school (feeds to high school programs)
Where Graduates Go
As a middle school, JSMAL prepares cadets for high school pathways that lead to service academy preparation. Principal Tamara Roper, a West Point graduate, provides mentorship for students interested in military careers.
Hall of Fame
General Joseph Stilwell (Namesake)
Four-star U.S. Army general, commanded Allied forces in China-Burma-India Theater during WWII, West Point graduate, recipient of Distinguished Service Cross and Combat Infantryman Badge
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical training is integrated into the military leadership curriculum. Cadets participate in physical education and may join school athletic teams. The program emphasizes fitness as a component of overall leadership development.
Facilities
Campus includes athletic facilities, gymnasium, and outdoor training areas. Adjacent Joseph Stilwell Middle School Park provides additional recreation space.
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
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Guides & Resources
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