The goal of St. John's Northwestern is not to make soldiers out of students, but rather to teach young men the principles of leadership in order to prepare them for life. This preparation is done within a structured environment, which is complimented by the school's academic, athletic, and spiritual programs. The program develops leadership skills, promotes a drug-free environment, strengthens character, emphasizes values, and improves fitness. Under the military structure, the student body is organized into a Corps of Cadets composed of a Battalion Staff and individual companies all under cadet leadership. The Corps is self-governing under the guidance of the Academy administration.
Cadet leaders are responsible for much of the daily life.
Every cadet has an opportunity to obtain a leadership position based on his proven accomplishments and leadership potential. Values Moral and ethical values play an important role in the lives of our cadets. The Academy encourages spiritual growth and respects the religious beliefs of the individual. Religious, cultural, and ethnic diversity is ingrained in the daily lives of the cadets at St. John's Northwestern. Cadets come from an average of ten different countries representing as many as five major world religions.