Porterville Military Academy
Porterville, CA
"Developing 21st Century Leaders"
The Verdict
Porterville Military Academy was founded with a clear vision: develop 21st Century leaders who will be agents of change in business, politics, the community, and public service. Located in California's Central Valley, PMA offers free military-style education through the California Cadet Corps program.
Led by a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, PMA combines military science curriculum, drill competitions, and aviation club opportunities with Project Lead The Way academics—preparing cadets for both college and careers.
About
Porterville Military Academy is a public charter school within Porterville Unified School District serving grades 7-12. Founded by a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, PMA develops 21st century leaders through California Cadet Corps military training, rigorous academics, and character development.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
open
Key Requirements
- Porterville Unified School District enrollment
- Rising 7th-12th grade students
- Commitment to uniform requirements and military training
- Interest in leadership development
Location
Campus & Facilities
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
255
Student:Teacher
15:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
Cadets follow a structured daily schedule combining academic classes with military science instruction. The cadet ranking system provides leadership opportunities, and students participate in drill competitions, color guard ceremonies, and community service. Uniforms are worn daily as part of the military environment.
Discipline Model
PMA operates on military principles of discipline, respect, and personal responsibility. Cadets advance through ranks based on merit and leadership demonstrated. The California Cadet Corps framework provides structure while emphasizing character development over punishment.
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical training is integrated into the California Cadet Corps curriculum. All cadets participate in drill and physical fitness activities.
Facilities
Campus includes athletic facilities for varsity and middle school sports programs. Aviation club activities supplement the standard military and athletic offerings.
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
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