Marine Military Academy
An All Boys College Preparatory Boarding School
Special Programs
The Marine Military Academy special programs department is designed to complement traditional education and, ultimately, give cadets the competitive edge necessary for success after graduation.
Members of this department are heavily involved in individualized instruction and often tailor a specific program for one cadet. Most instruction involves hands-on experiences and provides opportunities for creative expression. In some cases, cadets take part in setting up their own programs by analyzing their own strengths and weaknesses and regularly conferencing with their teacher for guidance.
Courses
SAT Preparation
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
A course unique to MMA that affords cadets the opportunity to improve their college entrance exam scores while beginning the college selection and application process through a combination of direct instruction, practice testing, analysis and follow-up drills. It includes a placement test and vocabulary study in an individualized program, plus the time to create a personal file with a resume, an autobiography, at least one college essay and college information charts for their universities of interest. Cadets in this class also have the opportunity to visit the resources in the college placement office and receive one-on-one counseling with the college placement counselor.
Aerospace I
Duration: One year
Prerequisite: None
A ground school course that prepares cadets to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Private Pilot Written Exam. Aerospace I also helps prepare cadets for the FAA Private Pilot Practical Exam by thoroughly teaching them all of the knowledge required for a private pilot's certificate. The course utilizes the Jeppesen Private Pilot Training Materials. While flying is not required for Aerospace I, two to four flights per semester are suggested in support of classroom instruction. To learn more about this program, visit the Air Wing website.
Aerospace II
Duration: One year
Prerequisite: None
An advanced elective designed to teach the material necessary to take the FAA Instrument Pilot Written Exam. Flight training is given in a Cessna 172 or Cessna 152 training aircraft as well as our FAA-approved ATD flight simulator. In addition to these electives, the Air Wing offers additional training leading to the Commercial Pilot and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificates. Call the Air Wing for more details at: 956.AIR.WING, or visit their website.
Computer Science
Duration: Two semesters
Prerequisite: Algebra I
This course introduces cadets to the logical and structural concepts of computer programming using JAVA and aids in the development and reinforcement of logical thinking and manipulative skills, problem solving, program development and effective use of computer hardware. A strong understanding in math is required for successful completion.
Business Computer Programming I
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: CIS II
An introductory course to database programming and development. Cadets will become familiar with database design, development, architecture and integration with Macros using Visual Basic Application Programming.
Business Computer Programming II
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: BCIS
An introductory course to programming using Visual Basic. Cadets will learn how Visual Basic can be used to tailor typical business programs for enhanced performance and increased value for specific applications.
Business Computer Applications
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
Cadets apply the proper touch-system technique to input data when using the computer, and apply word processing technology in order to format and print documents such as personal and business letters, memos and short reports.
Business Computer Information Systems
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: BCA
An introduction to the use of computer applications in college and business. Through skill building and problem solving, cadets acquire good working knowledge of business program suites used to record, store, retrieve and present information. Placed in real world and simulated situations, cadets learn to create professional documents, spreadsheets, databases and computer presentations. Accelerated cadets will be afforded the opportunity to become a certified Microsoft Office User Specialist (MOUS) in one or more areas of concentration.
Health
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
This course teaches cadets how taking responsibility for their own health has a positive effect not only on themselves but also on those around them. It provides a comprehensive study of the body and an explanation of the interdependence of its systems. It also develops the decision-making skills necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Desktop Publishing
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
This course uses PageMaker for electronic publishing and advertising graphics in the production of the Pass in Review, MMA's yearbook. Cadets strengthen their writing skills while learning photography, page layout and design, business, professionalism and, ultimately, gain marketable job skills.
Art Photography
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to meet university visual and performing arts requirements. Traditional photography, digital photography, and photo editing will be covered.
Band
Duration: One semester
Prerequisite: None
An integral part of the military aspect of the school, the band consists of musicians of all levels of experience from beginning to advanced and provides support for a variety of school and regional events.
Cinematography Arts
Duration: Two semesters
Prerequisite: None
This project-based course is designed to give cadets an overview of the art of digital visual storytelling. Cadets will use high definition video camcorders and professional video editing software and work in teams to develop and create their own productions that demonstrate what they’ve learned. Upon completion, cadets will have produced a professional digital portfolio of their work that clearly demonstrates their knowledge of cinematography arts and visual storytelling.
Marine Science
Duration: Two semesters
Prerequisite: None
Seamanship and navigation are the heart of this course of study. Hands-on weekly sailing activities are complemented by classroom instruction in piloting, marine physics, marine engineering and radar navigation, during which cadets learn to operate an actual marine radar.
Faculty
Jodie Stryker
Department Chair
TEL: 956.423.6006 ext.748
Email: stryker@MMA-TX.org
Jodie Stryker is a native Texan with nearly 20 years of teaching experience. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Master's in Educational Technology and is a lifetime member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society. In 2002, Mrs. Stryker joined the MMA faculty. She appreciates the discipline and structure that MMA offers and enjoys being able to teach in such an environment.
CWO 3 Edward D. Harris, USMC (Ret)
Teacher, Special Programs
TEL: 956.421.9223
Email: harris@MMA-TX.org
USMC Retired Chief Warrant Officer-3 Edward D. Harris is MMA's Bandmaster. He retired from the United States Marine Corps in 1998 with more than 23 years of active service, serving as a band officer, enlisted bandleader and trombonist throughout his career.
A graduate of the Advanced Band Leaders Course, Armed Forces School of Music at Mount Hood College in Gresham, Oregon, he has toured the country visiting numerous high school and junior high school bands as a clinician, guest conductor and guest performer.
As a Trombonist, he has performed and recorded with Bette Midler, Al Jarreau, Lyle Lovitt, Malcolm Arnold, and Frank Sinatra, and he remains active as a professional trombonist. Additionally, he is a well-known and respected conductor and published arranger who has numerous big band and concert bank arrangements to his credit.
Mike Morton
Teacher, Special Programs
TEL: 956.423.6006 ext.727
Email: jmorton@MMA-TX.org
J. M. Morton is one of two faculty members who are MMA alumni. Over the last 13 years on the faculty, he has taught a variety of subjects including health, PE and history and has coached football, basketball and track. He enjoys sharing his talents in his position as head coach for the track team.
Edgar R. Martinez
Teacher, Special Programs
TEL: 956.423.6006 ext. 739
Email: emartinez@MMA-TX.org
Edgar R. Martinez is a native of Brownsville, Texas. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in the field. In 2006, he joined the MMA faculty and teaches business computer information systems.