Phoenix STEM Military Academy
Chicago, IL
"Empower, Equip, Elevate, & Educate"
The Verdict
Phoenix Military Academy is a tuition-free Chicago Public Schools JROTC magnet high school in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. True to its name—and its Firebirds mascot—PMA offers students a fresh start through structured military discipline and rigorous college-prep academics with a STEM focus.
The academy's unofficial motto, "The 7 Ps" (Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance), encapsulates a no-excuses planning philosophy that prepares cadets for military service, college, or immediate career entry. As one of six CPS military academies, PMA provides an urban alternative for students seeking leadership development without the cost of private boarding schools.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
Phoenix Military Academy (PMA) is a college preparatory, STEM high school where cadets are enrolled in the Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC). The academy is committed to providing students with leadership opportunities and an engaging curriculum to prepare them as 21st-century leaders.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
developmental
Key Requirements
- Chicago Public Schools application through GoCPS
- Academic records review
- Attendance history evaluation
- Behavior record consideration
- Interest in JROTC and military-style education
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Urban campus within Chicago Public Schools facilities
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
372
Student:Teacher
13:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
Phoenix Military Academy follows a structured school day beginning with morning formation and uniform inspection. Cadets attend academic classes, JROTC leadership labs, and participate in drill and ceremony practice. After-school activities include athletics, drill team competitions, and leadership development programs. The emphasis on the '7 Ps' means cadets learn meticulous planning and preparation as daily habits.
Discipline Model
PMA operates under Chicago Public Schools conduct policies combined with Army JROTC cadet discipline standards. The cadet battalion structure includes student leadership positions—Battalion Commander, Company Commanders, Platoon Leaders, and Squad Leaders—providing peer-led accountability. Cadets are expected to exemplify the seven Army Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
Majority pursue postsecondary education
Where Graduates Go
Cadets receive guidance for service academy applications; four years of JROTC participation and leadership positions strengthen military academy candidacy
Hall of Fame
PMA Alumni
Graduates have gone on to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, attend universities across the country, and pursue careers in public service and STEM fields
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical training is integrated through JROTC fitness requirements including the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Cadets participate in regular PT sessions that develop strength, endurance, and discipline. The Raider Team and drill team competitions provide additional physical challenges and foster teamwork and unit cohesion.
Facilities
Urban campus facilities include a gymnasium, outdoor athletic areas, drill practice spaces, and classrooms equipped for STEM instruction. The school participates in Chicago Public League athletics and JROTC drill and Raider competitions citywide.
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
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Guides & Resources
Chicago's Public Military Academies: The Nation's Largest Free Network
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Free Military Schools: Your Complete Guide to No-Tuition Options
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How to Evaluate a Military School Like an Insider
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What Is a Military School?
Understanding the different types of military academies in the United States, from private boarding schools to public academies and Youth Challenge programs.
Age Requirements and Grade Placement at Military Schools
When is too young or too old for military school? Understand age cutoffs, grade placement policies, and post-graduate year options.
Military Schools for Boys
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