Commandant’s Department

Parent Handbook

This information provides a general overview of cadet life at Fork Union Military Academy, as well

as useful information for all parents. Please note that some information in this document is subject

to change throughout the course of the year. If you have any questions relating to its contents you

may contact the Commandant’s Department.

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

LEAVE POLICIES AND REGULATIONS ......................................................................... 4 PROCEDURES TO MONITOR DEPARTURES FROM CAMPUS ............................... 4 PROMPT RETURN TO CAMPUS ................................................................................... 4 TRANSPORTATION........................................................................................................ 4 LEAVE TIMES FOR REGULAR LEAVES .................................................................... 4 DEPARTURE AND RETURN TIME VARIATIONS ..................................................... 4 ELIGIBILITY FOR LEAVE ............................................................................................. 4 ELIGIBILITY FOR WEEKEND LEAVE ........................................................................ 5 CADET LEADERSHIP, ATHLETIC, AND EXTRACURRICULAR COMMITMENT 5 MEDICAL LEAVE ........................................................................................................... 6 MAJOR LEAVES ............................................................................................................. 6 EMERGENCY LEAVE .................................................................................................... 6

COLLEGE LEAVE ........................................................................................................... 6 LOSS OF LEAVE ............................................................................................................. 7

CADETS’ PERSONAL CONDUCT ..................................................................................... 8 ABSENT WITHOUT LEAVE (AWOL) .......................................................................... 8 TRIBUNAL HEARINGS .................................................................................................. 8 USE OF INTOXICANTS, MASKING AGENTS, OR MISUSE OF MEDICATIONS ... 8 TESTING FOR USE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS OR ALCOHOL ........................................ 8 NOTICE OF RIGHT TO SEARCH .................................................................................. 9 STEALING ........................................................................................................................ 9 FIGHTING ........................................................................................................................ 9 HAZING ............................................................................................................................ 9 PERSONAL APPEARANCE ........................................................................................... 9 CONDUCT OFF CAMPUS .............................................................................................. 9

DISMISSAL .................................................................................................................... 10 PRIVATELY OWNED VEHICLES ............................................................................... 10

BARRACKS REGULATIONS ........................................................................................... 11 ROOM CLEANLINESS ................................................................................................. 11 PERSONAL PROPERTY ............................................................................................... 11 MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS .......................................................................................... 11 COMMUNICATION DEVICES..................................................................................... 11

TELEPHONE USAGE SCHEDULE .............................................................................. 11 TELEVISIONS ................................................................................................................ 12 COMPUTERS ................................................................................................................. 12

BEDLOCKERS ............................................................................................................... 12 MEDICATIONS .............................................................................................................. 12

PROHIBITED ITEMS .................................................................................................... 13 BEDDING ITEMS .......................................................................................................... 13

ROOM ASSIGNMENTS ................................................................................................ 13 CALL TO QUARTERS (CQ): ........................................................................................ 13

CLOTHING ......................................................................................................................... 14 CIVILIAN CLOTHES .................................................................................................... 14 ATHLETIC APPAREL AND EQUIPMENT ................................................................. 14

HAIRCUTS ......................................................................................................................... 14

COUNSELING .................................................................................................................... 15 DEMERIT POLICY ............................................................................................................ 16

PENALTY TOURS ......................................................................................................... 16

LOSS OF LEADERSHIP POSITIONS ........................................................................... 16 CONDUCT PROBATION STATUS .............................................................................. 16

BUSINESS OFFICE ............................................................................................................ 17 ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT .............................................................................................. 18

PARENT / COACH COMMUNICATION: .................................................................... 18 COMMUNICATION WITH A COACH: ....................................................................... 18 ATTENDANCE AT ATHLETIC EVENTS: .................................................................. 18

CAMPUS VISITS ............................................................................................................... 19 FUMA Administrative Staff ................................................................................................ 20 COMMANDANT’S DEPARTMENT ................................................................................. 20 Major Leave Charter Bus Form ........................................................................................... 23 TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION AND FEES 2016 ................................................ 24

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LEAVE POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

Important policies worth noting at the outset concerns cadets' travel plans to and from Fork Union. Before

making travel plans for your son, you should first review the School Calendar and become familiar with

Weekend Leave policies. Like all cadet regulations, this Leave Policy is applied equally to all members of

the Cadet Corps to maintain consistency.

When a cadet is assessed tours (30 minutes of marching per tour) for demerits, he must complete all tours

received prior to the day of departure. Cadets who appear on the demerit report on Thursday or Friday are

authorized to go on leave; tours assessed are marched after returning from leave.

PROCEDURES TO MONITOR DEPARTURES FROM CAMPUS

Sign-out procedures for leaves and day passes are designed to ensure that cadets leave campus with

individuals authorized by their parents. The Academy monitors all departures; however adherence to

parental restrictions is ultimately the parent and cadet's responsibility. Cadets are aware they face serious

punitive consequences for departing or returning with a person not specifically authorized to take them off

campus or return them to campus.

PROMPT RETURN TO CAMPUS

All cadets must plan their leaves to ensure their timely return to campus. A cadet returning late from leave,

regardless of the reason, may be assessed an appropriate number of demerits and/or tours and may forfeit his

next leave privilege(s).

TRANSPORTATION

Fork Union will schedule a shuttle to and from the Richmond area for each leave weekend. Private hire

drivers are available as needed. Charter bus service is available for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring

leaves. The Bus Schedule and fees are included in this handbook.

LEAVE TIMES FOR REGULAR LEAVES

• Departure: Friday, upon completion of the academic class day (regularly 1230).

• Return: Sunday, no later than 1900.

DEPARTURE AND RETURN TIME VARIATIONS

Please refer to the school calendar at the end of this book for departure and return variations for Parents’

Weekend, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Winter, Spring, Easter, Alumni Weekend, and Mothers’ Day leaves.

ELIGIBILITY FOR LEAVE

1. Eligibility requirements for weekend leaves are designed as an incentive program to encourage cadets

to maintain satisfactory grades and conduct. All leaves are to be approved by Parents or Guardians.

2. Parents are asked not to request permission for a cadet to take a leave when he is not eligible.

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3. Parents and Guardians are requested to complete and sign the Weekend Leave Permission Form and

return it to the Commandant's Office. A cadet may not take a weekend leave unless his Leave

Permission Form is signed and on file in the Commandant's Office.

4. Parental permission for leave or day pass (or an invitation for another cadet to visit during a weekend

leave) must be provided in writing and cannot be authorized by telephone. Permission or invitation

letters are required in the Commandant’s Office prior to 1600 on the Wednesday prior to a Friday

departure.

5. Unless specifically requested by the cadet's parents not to allow carpooling, the Academy will

approve transportation provided by the parent or guardian of another cadet if a cadet has open leave.

6. Cadets must sign-out of their respective company together with the adult indicated on their leave slip.

7. If traveling on public transportation cadets will turn-in their leave form to the adult monitoring bus

boarding.

ELIGIBILITY FOR WEEKEND LEAVE

1. Cadets performing satisfactorily in the classroom and having no conduct restrictions or athletic

commitments are eligible for weekend leave.

2. A cadet may not take leave on two weekends in succession. An exception is granted for cadets who

are eligible for special earned leave.

3. Weekend leaves are subject to loss due to misconduct.

4. Day Passes are allowed as follows:

a. Saturdays: 1100 – 2100

b. Sundays: 1015 – 1900 (during parade season, the departure time will be announced at the

conclusion of the parade)

CADET LEADERSHIP, ATHLETIC, AND EXTRACURRICULAR COMMITMENTS

1. Cadet Officers and higher non-commissioned officers are not automatically excused from their

company or battalion responsibilities for leave. A cadet leader must coordinate leave plans with his

TAC Officer to ensure that all responsibilities are fulfilled.

2. Cadets participating on athletic teams, clubs or performing groups are not compensated for leaves

missed or delayed because of team games, trips, or related events.

3. Cadets that have commitments which conflict with leaves are not compensated for missed leaves,

e.g., athletic events, or band events. Cadets are not excused from their commitments nor may they

quit teams or cancel participation on trips or programs to go on leave.

4. Cadets who go on leave in lieu of academy commitments may forfeit future leave privileges and

may be assigned demerits and/or penalty tours.

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MEDICAL LEAVE

1. Any request for a cadet to depart campus for medical reasons must be approved by the Academy

Infirmary.

2. All routine dental and medical leaves (including medication management) need to be planned for

scheduled leave only.

3. Leave permission is not granted for routine appointments.

4. Please call the Academy Infirmary (434-842-4310) to discuss scheduling of medical, dental

(emergency), or orthodontic appointments.

MAJOR LEAVES

1. It is imperative that cadets adhere to leave departure and return times for all leaves, especially for

major leaves (Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break) when campus facilities are closed.

2. Major Leave returns are not authorized prior to 0900 on the assigned return date, due to adult

supervision not being available on campus.

3. LATE LEAVE DEPARTURE/ EARLY LEAVE RETURN:

a. If a cadet does not leave at the scheduled leave time on the three mandatory leaves

(Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break) a fee will be charged per cadet of $150.00

for less than 24 hours and $300.00 over 24 hours.

EMERGENCY LEAVE

1. An emergency leave is defined as absence from the Academy due to severe illness or death of a

member of the cadet’s immediate family.

2. A member of the immediate family is defined as the parent, grandparent, brother or sister of a cadet.

3. In the event of a family death requiring an emergency leave, please furnish the Deputy Commandant

with the following information in writing:

a. Name of deceased family member

b. Relationship to the cadet

c. Hospital and/or funeral director’s telephone number

d. Date of funeral

COLLEGE LEAVE

1. Seniors are authorized two (2) college visits, which must be coordinated with the Guidance

Department and must be approved by the Academic Dean and the cadet’s current teacher.

2. Cadets are authorized to miss one day of class per visit in conjunction with a weekend. For example,

a student may depart campus on Thursday after class and return on Sunday, or depart on Friday after

class and return prior to class on Tuesday morning.

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3. Juniors are authorized one (1) college “open house” visit which must be approved through the

Guidance Department.

4. Any missed class time must be approved by the Academic Dean.

LOSS OF LEAVE

1. If a cadet takes a leave when he is not eligible, his next regular weekend leave is forfeited and he will

receive demerits.

2. A cadet is not eligible for regular leave if he has penalty tours. Cadets may proceed on leave at any

time during the leave period after completing tours.

Questions about leave procedures should be addressed

to Mrs. Robbin Dodson in the Commandant’s Office: 434-842-4231 or dodsonr@fuma.org

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CADETS’ PERSONAL CONDUCT ABSENT WITHOUT LEAVE (AWOL)

1. Cadets may not leave the campus without proper authorization.

2. Demerit penalties assessed for AWOL are commensurate with the length of the cadet's absence.

3. After an absence of seventy-two (72) hours, a cadet places his enrollment in jeopardy.

TRIBUNAL HEARINGS

1. Tribunal Hearings are conducted when there is sufficient evidence of inappropriate cadet behavior or

an accumulation of excessive demerits.

2. A select team of three (3) faculty members will conduct the Tribunal Hearing and will make an

appropriate disciplinary recommendation to the Academy President.

3. The Academy President will determine the cadet’s final punishment.

USE OF INTOXICANTS, MASKING AGENTS, OR MISUSE OF MEDICATIONS

1. A cadet will appear before a Faculty Tribunal Hearing and may face dismissal if he:

a. uses, possesses, distributes or is under the influence of alcohol or any illegal drugs

b. uses, possesses or distributes any medication or is in possession of prescription medication

not authorized by the Academy Infirmary

c. uses, possesses or distributes any illegal or controlled substances

d. intentionally misuses or distributes any potentially intoxicating or harmful substances

e. uses masking agents to hide any drug use

TESTING FOR USE OF ILLEGAL DRUGS OR ALCOHOL

1. Probable cause testing: If a cadet is suspected of illegal drug or alcohol use, the Academy will require

the cadet to submit to a drug/alcohol test.

2. Random testing: The Academy reserves the right to conduct unannounced random drug/alcohol

testing of any cadet at any time.

3. A cadet's refusal to submit to drug/alcohol test will be treated as an admission of guilt and may

result in dismissal from the Academy.

4. An effort will be made to inform a cadet's parents of an impending test, as well as any test results.

5. A positive test results may result in dismissal from the Academy.

6. Parents are responsible for the cost of a positive drug/alcohol test.

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NOTICE OF RIGHT TO SEARCH

1. The use, possession, or transfer of illegal drugs, guns, or explosive related materials is strictly

prohibited on Academy property.

2. The Academy reserves the right to periodically and without notice inspect any and all personal

property of any person on the Academy's premises.

3. Fork Union Military Academy does not authorize concealed weapons of any kind on Academy

property.

STEALING

1. A cadet found guilty of stealing will face a Faculty Tribunal Hearing.

2. A cadet found guilty of stealing will be responsible for appropriate reimbursement of the victim(s).

FIGHTING

1. Fighting is not allowed and will result in demerits/ tours and or a Faculty Tribunal Hearing.

HAZING

1. Physical or emotional abuse of cadets is not tolerated at the Academy.

2. A cadet found guilty of hazing will appear before a Faculty Tribunal Hearing.

3. A cadet is required to report hazing to the Commandant’s Department immediately.

PERSONAL APPEARANCE

1. Regulations require that each cadet maintain a regulation haircut, clean shave, and neat uniform

appearance at all times.

2. A completely shaved head or any type of body piercing is not in compliance with Academy cadet

regulations.

3. Cadets may not physically alter their uniform items without permission from the Commandant’s

Department.

4. The Commandant’s Department may require a cadet to purchase new uniform articles if uniform

items appear worn-out or irreparable.

CONDUCT OFF CAMPUS

1. A cadet represents Fork Union Military Academy at all times, including off campus and while on

leave.

2. Conduct during leave or day pass which reflects negatively on the Academy will jeopardize the

cadet’s privileges and standing in the corps, and may result in disciplinary action or dismissal

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from the Academy.

DISMISSAL

1. A cadet may be dismissed from the Academy for grave misconduct, for continued violation of

regulations, or if his influence is deemed detrimental to the welfare of the corps of cadets.

2. A dismissed cadet will depart campus immediately.

3. If personal transportation is not readily available for a dismissed cadet, public transportation

may be utilized to return the cadet home.

4. Dismissed cadets are not authorized to return to campus without the prior approval of the

Commandant and must be accompanied by a parent.

PRIVATELY OWNED VEHICLES

1. Cadets, with the exception of day students, may not have automobiles or motorcycles at the Academy

or in the Fork Union area.

2. A cadet is permitted to drive an automobile in the Fork Union area if his parent or guardian is in the

vehicle with him or if he is a day student.

3. Cadets are prohibited from entering vehicles not driven by their own parents or by an adult authorized

by the Academy to provide transportation.

4. Day students are authorized to drive to their assigned parking area where the vehicle remains until the

end of the class day. Cadets are not allowed to visit their vehicle until ready to depart campus.

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BARRACKS REGULATIONS

ROOM CLEANLINESS

1. Each cadet is responsible for purchasing and maintaining items to keep his barracks room clean.

2. Cadets will complete a check-in form upon occupying a barracks room, and a move-out form when

checking-out.

3. Damages incurred to a cadet’s assigned room (Furniture, bed locker, windows and floors) will be

charged to his account.

PERSONAL PROPERTY

The Academy is not liable for cadet personal items that are damaged, lost, stolen, or confiscated.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

1. Cadets must obtain permission in advance from the Commandant to store instruments in barracks

rooms.

2. Large musical instruments or instruments requiring amplifiers or special storage are not authorized.

COMMUNICATION DEVICES

1. Telephones are provided in each barracks room. These telephones can only place calls to local and

toll-free numbers. Long distance access is available via the use of a prepaid calling card, obtained at

the cadet’s expense.

2. Cell phone use is authorized for travel while on leave. Possession of a cell phone by a cadet not on

leave will result in disciplinary action.

3. TAC Officers will store cadet cell phones after completion of travel and will return phones to cadets

prior to leave departure.

TELEPHONE USAGE SCHEDULE

Cadets are authorized to make or receive phone calls from barracks room telephones as indicated below.

Monday 1630 – 1900

Tuesday 1400 – 1800

Wednesday 1630 – 1900

Thursday 1400 – 1800

Friday 1400 – 2150

Saturday 1100 – 2150

Sunday 1330 – 1900

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TELEVISIONS

1. Televisions are provided in each barracks room.

2. The Academy will provide access to television broadcasts via a predetermined channel package at no

additional cost to the cadet.

3. Cadets are responsible for any damage to the barracks room televisions.

COMPUTERS 1. Computer use is subject to the Academy’s acceptable use policy.

BEDLOCKERS

1. Cadets will secure bed lockers at all times with a combination lock purchased from the Academy’s

Quartermaster Department.

2. Food or beverage items must be stored in the authorized area of the bed lockers, and must be in

appropriate containers.

MEDICATIONS

1. Cadets may not keep any medication, weight gain supplements, vitamins, or similar non-food

consumable products without expressed authorization from the Academy Infirmary.

2. Prescription medications are dispensed from the Infirmary at predetermined times during the day.

3. Any medication authorized by the Infirmary must be kept in the cadet’s locked bed locker, except

when dispensing the medication.

4. Improper consumption or distribution of any medication or controlled substance will result in the

imposition of corrective measures, which may include dismissal from the Academy.

5. Cadets who do not take their medication as prescribed are assessed demerits and/or penalty tours.

6. Cadets are not allowed to transport any prescribed behavior medication to and from the Academy.

Please contact the Infirmary in advance to request that medicines are mailed home before major

leaves.

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7. The Infirmary does not contact parents when a cadet’s medication supply is low. It is the parents’

responsibility to ensure that adequate doses of medication are available.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

1. Cadets are not authorized to have electrical appliances in their rooms.

2. Cadets may not possess firearms, pornography, unauthorized technology with cameras, any form of

tobacco or electronic smoking devices, sunflower seeds, chewing gum, posters, or aerosols.

BEDDING ITEMS

1. Each cadet must bring his own pillow.

2. In addition to the supplied Academy blanket, a dark blue blanket is authorized.

ROOM ASSIGNMENTS

Barracks rooms are assigned by the Commandant’s Department staff at their discretion.

CALL TO QUARTERS (CQ):

1. An element of the Academy’s academic program is the strictly enforced study period conducted

during the evening (usually from 1930 to 2130) preceding every class day.

2. Faculty officers-in-charge (OC) are assigned to the barracks to ensure quiet and to enforce all

regulations during CQ.

3. Cadets must remain seated at their desks throughout the CQ period. Doors to cadet rooms will remain

open.

4. No talking, eating, listening to music, letter writing, or other activity not related to academics is

permitted. A cadet who finishes his assignments early may read a book.

5. A cadet deemed by the OC to be in violation of CQ regulations is placed on report for a CQ violation,

which incurs demerits, tours, and loss of the next eligible weekend leave privilege.

6. CQ requirements and expectations are explained to cadets in detail during orientation at the beginning

of the school year.

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CLOTHING CIVILIAN CLOTHES

1. Cadets may keep civilian clothes in the authorized barracks storage area, and not in their barracks

rooms.

2. The Academy does not insure or assume responsibility for damage to clothes or personal items left in

barracks storage.

3. Cadets are not authorized to wear civilian clothes on day pass unless they are at their residence or the

residence of another cadet.

4. A cadet on day pass in the public eye must be in uniform.

ATHLETIC APPAREL AND EQUIPMENT

1. Cadets will wear Academy athletic attire issued from the Academy Quartermaster Department.

2. Cadets may bring their personal athletic equipment (shoes, ball gloves, basketballs, lacrosse sticks,

etc.) and store them in their assigned athletic lockers.

3. The Academy is not responsible for lost or damaged personal athletic equipment.

HAIRCUTS

1. Cadets are required to have closely trimmed haircuts in accordance with Academy regulations.

2. Hair will be cut to no longer than one inch on the top with tapered sides and back. Hair will not touch

the cadet’s ears or his uniform shirt collar. Sideburns will not extend below the middle of the ear.

3. The Academy employs a licensed barber on campus. Haircuts are included with tuition.

4. Off campus haircuts must meet Academy haircut regulations.

5. Cadets cannot forgo needed haircuts while waiting to go on day pass or leave.

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COUNSELING

A key to any young man's growth and success at the Academy is his willingness to communicate with adults on

campus who can offer him guidance and support. The Guidance and Counseling Department offers a staff of

counselors who are available to assist our cadets navigate through life at Fork Union. Services include academic

guidance and scheduling, personal adjustment counseling, college and career counseling, and parent and teacher

consultation and collaboration. Cadets are assigned to a guidance counselor based on their grade placement.

All members of the faculty and staff are available to help students deal with everyday challenges that they might

encounter during the school year. Encourage your son to seek out any of our faculty or staff members with whom

he feels comfortable for help in dealing with any concerns that might arise while a cadet at Fork Union. Along

with a guidance counselor, each cadet is assigned a specific faculty advisor and a company TAC Officer charged

with overseeing his progress in all areas of cadet life. Cadets have ongoing access to their guidance counselor,

TAC officer, teachers, advisor, coaches, chaplain, club sponsors, and other staff members who can assist them

with their specific concerns.

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DEMERIT POLICY PENALTY TOURS 1. Cadets are not authorized to attend practices or depart from campus with tours pending.

2. Cadets who appear on the demerit report on the day of an athletic event are authorized to attend the

event with the coach’s permission.

LOSS OF LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

Cadet officers and non-commissioned officers who exceed fifty (50) demerits, violate their Officer

Contract, or are found guilty of an Honor Code violation forfeit their cadet leadership positions, and all

corresponding rank.

CONDUCT PROBATION STATUS

1. A cadet on Conduct Probation is limited to one weekend leave, and one day pass per

month.

2. Cadets on Conduct Probation may not go on day pass with another cadet.

3. Probationary cadets may not invite another cadet on leave, with the exception of major leaves.

4. Cadets on Conduct Probation must obtain specific permission from the Commandant or the

Deputy Commandant to attend Academy sponsored social events.

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BUSINESS OFFICE

LATE LEAVE DEPARTURE/ EARLY LEAVE RETURN: If a cadet does not leave at the

scheduled leave time on the three mandatory leaves (Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break) a

fee will be charged per cadet of $150.00 for less than 24 hours and $300.00 over 24 hours.

RETURNED CHECKS: The Business Office will charge a $75.00 return check fee for any checks

returned by a financial institution for any reason.

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ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

PARENT / COACH COMMUNICATION:

There may be times when an athlete and/or his parent may not see eye-to-eye with a member of the

coaching staff. The procedure when such a situation arises is:

1. Athlete / Coach: The athlete needs to discuss the issue with his coach.

2. Parent / Coach: If the athlete and his coach cannot resolve the issue, the parent is welcome to contact

the coach for discussion.

3. Parent / Athletic Director: If, after the previous two steps, the issue has still not been resolved to the

parent’s satisfaction, the Athletic Director can assist in the situation.

Note: As a general rule, it is not advisable to approach a member of the coaching staff with issues of

concern immediately after an athletic contest.

COMMUNICATION WITH A COACH:

Our coaching staff is committed to helping an athlete achieve his full potential, both on and off the field.

When communicating with a coach, parents are reminded of these guidelines:

1. Appropriate issues to discuss with a member of the coaching staff

i. Treatment of the athlete

ii. How the parent might work together with the coaching staff to help the athlete improve

iii. Concern about the athlete’s behavior, in or out of the athletic arena

2. Inappropriate issues to discuss with a member of the coaching staff

i. Playing time

ii. Team strategy

iii. Other athletes’ role on the team

ATTENDANCE AT ATHLETIC EVENTS:

Parents are encouraged to help support the Academy’s athletic teams by attending team competitions.

Particularly in a boarding school environment, the athletes benefit greatly from positive, encouraging

support in the stands.

1. Athletic schedules are posted to the Academy web site (www.athletics.forkunion.com). However,

there may be special situations when an event time needs to be changed or the event postponed or

cancelled at the last minute. The Athletic Department will always attempt to notify our parents and

other spectators of these changes, but it cannot be guaranteed to be disseminated before travel plans

may be affected.

2. Athlete availability after contests: While interaction with the athletes after events is welcomed, an

athlete’s availability after events is left to the coaching staff’s discretion.

3. VISAA Code of Conduct: as a member school of the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic

Association (VISAA), the Academy’s athletes, coaches, and supporters are to adhere to the VISAA

Code of Conduct while attending athletic competitions:

“The VISAA believes that interscholastic athletics are an integral part of the total educational

program. High standards of behavior, scholarship, and citizenship are important to a sound

athletic program. Students volunteering to participate in athletics should assume these

responsibilities and will lead by example in demonstrating fairness, respect, and self-control.

Athletes, coaches, officials and fans shall at all times conduct themselves in a reasonable and

sportsmanlike manner. Each person will be responsible for his or her words and actions at all

VISAA Events and shall adhere to the Code of Conduct at VISAA Events.”

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CAMPUS VISITS

When visiting your son on campus please report to the Commandant’s Department. Please contact the

Commandant’s Department prior to your visit if there is an emergency. Contacting the Commandant’s

Department will ensure that you connect with your son in an expeditious manner.

We prefer not to disrupt the class day if your visit is not an emergency.

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FUMA Administrative Staff

COL Todd Giszack, VP of Academics 434-842-4212 giszackt@fuma.org

COL Houston Eldridge, Commandant of Cadets 434-842-4231 eldridgeh@fuma.org

COL Steve Macek, VP of Operations 434-842-4321 maceks@fuma.org

LTC Brooks Berry, Athletic Director 434-842-4281 berryb@fuma.org

Mrs. Sharon Higginbotham, VP of Finance 434-842-4336 higginbs@fuma.org

Mrs. Suzanne Grant, Quartermaster 434-842-4351 grants@fuma.org

COL Robert Feathers, Director of Guidance 434-842-4204 featherr@fuma.org

Mrs. Lisa Lamb, Registrar 434-842-4211 lambl@fuma.org

Mr. Larry McIlnay, Director of Food Service 434-842-4390 mcilnayl@fuma.org

Mrs. Juanita Scott, Head Nurse 434-842-4310 scottj@fuma.org

MAJ James Benson, Chaplain 434-842-4213 bensonj@fuma.org

COMMANDANT’S DEPARTMENT

COL Houston Eldridge, Commandant 434-842-4239 eldridgeh@fuma.org

1SG Eugene Brice, Deputy Commandant 434-842-4234 bricee@fuma.org

MAJ Alex Grant, Assistant to the Commandant 434-842-4238 grantar@fuma.org

CSM Glenn Sidwell, Command Sergeant Major 434-842-4235 sidwellg@fuma.org

Mrs. Robbin Dodson, Secretary 434-842-4231 dodsonr@fuma.org

TAC OFFICERS

A Company MAJ James Pelham 434-842-4381 pelhamj@fuma.org

B Company MAJ Mike Sidwell 434-842-4237 sidwellm@fuma.org

C Company MAJ John Justice 434-842-4256 justicej@fuma.org

D Company CPT Mark Shuman 434-842-4240 shumanm@fuma.org

E Company CPT Gary Leydig 434-842-4229 leydigg@fuma.org

Night TAC MAJ Shane Sidwell 434-842-4232 sidwells@fuma.org

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LEAVE PERMISSION FORM

This form MUST be completed and signed by the cadet’s parents(s) or legal guardian(s) and returned to the Commandant’s Department before the cadet is be allowed to leave campus. From: _______________________________________________________________________________ (Please Print) Cadet’s Parents’ or Guardians’ Full Name(s) I hereby give permission for Cadet_________________________________________________________ To use Weekend Leave and Day Pass privileges in accordance with all Academy regulations and subject to the restrictions stated below.

Parents: Please read and identify the leave/day pass permissions below.

NO: My son needs my written permission for any leave/ day pass. (All cadets MUST leave campus for the 3

Major Leaves)

LIMITED: My son may go home with us or may leave with the specified adult(s) listed below, at least 21 years

old.

OPEN: My son may go on leave/ day pass with any adult, at least 21 years old, who has provided a written

invitation to the Commandant’s Department.

LEAVE (please check one)

DAY PASS (please check one)

NO NO

LIMITED LIMITED

OPEN OPEN

Adults authorized to take my cadet on Leave/Day pass. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Car-pooling with another cadet’s parents to your home is acceptable and does not require written permission. Changes to this permission form can be e-mailed to the Commandant’s Department at leave@fuma.org Parents’/Guardians’ Signature_________________________________________Date:________________________

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Parent Statement Support

Acknowledging that cooperation between home and school is essential to my son’s potential success at

Fork Union Military Academy, I have read, understand, and agree to uphold the regulations listed in

the Parent Handbook. In addition, I will encourage my son to uphold the rules and regulations listed in

the Cadet Handbook. I agree to cooperate with and support the Academy faculty and staff in all

matters pertaining to discipline and the administration of the military-styled educational program. I

recognize the importance of effective communication between parents and the Academy staff and will

discuss problems or issues with the appropriate person. I will encourage my son to do the same.

Signature of Parent or Guardian:

Name of Cadet: Date:

This form will be kept in the Commandant’s Office and will be a part of the Cadet’s file. 8/2017

A separate copy of this form is available on line.

The signed form is RETURNED TO THE COMMANDANT’s OFFICE.

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Major Leave Charter Bus Form

THANKSGIVING CHRISTMAS SPRING BREAK 2017-18 CHARTER BUS SCHEDULE & RESERVATION FORM

FORK UNION MILITARY ACADEMY

Cadet ID # Cadet Name (PLEASE PRINT) Company

Parent's Name (PLEASE PRINT) Telephone number

RICHMOND AMTRAK @ Staples Mill Road $50.00 One way $100.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA 12:30 PM ARRIVE TRAIN STATION 2:30 PM LEAVE TRAIN STATION 5:30 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

RICHMOND AIRPORT (RIC) $50.00 One way $100.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA 12:30 PM ARRIVE AIRPORT 2:30 PM LEAVE AIRPORT 6:00 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

RICHMOND GREYHOUND $50.00 One way $100.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA _12:30 PM ARRIVE TRAIN STATION 2:30 PM LEAVE TRAIN STATION 5:30 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

*TYSON'S CORNER $75.00 One way $150.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA 12:30 PM ARRIVE TYSON'S CORNER 4:00 PM LEAVE TYSON'S CORNER 3:00 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

WASHINGTON NATIONAL AIRPORT (DCA) Reagan $75.00 One way $150.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA 12:30 PM ARRIVE NATIONAL AIRPORT 4:00 PM LEAVE NATIONAL AIRPORT 4:00 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

WASHINGTON DULLES AIRPORT (IAD) $75.00 One way $150.00 Round trip

LEAVE FUMA 12:30 PM ARRIVE DULLES 4:00 PM LEAVE DULLES 4:00 PM ARRIVE FUMA 7:30 PM

* Tyson's One Parking Lot (Bloomingdale's Entrance) 1. Please select the leave. ** WASHINGTON NATIONAL – Terminals A or B 2. Please select the destination. ** DULLES – Main Terminal – Baggage Claim 3. Please circle TO and/or FROM.

4. Fees are charged to tuition account.

ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE

The bus driver will tell your cadet where to meet the bus to return from leave.

SEND REQUESTS TO THE LEAVE OFFICE EMAIL: dodsonr@fuma.org

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TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION AND FEES 2016

Shuttle transportation to and from the Richmond Airport, Amtrak on Staples Mill Road and Greyhound will be available for all leave weekends. The fee for the shuttle is $50.00 each way. The Shuttle will leave FUMA at 1:00 PM each leave Friday and will pick up students 5:30 PM on Sunday or Monday that leave ends. The shuttle will not take cadets to any other locations. Transportation on different days or at different times will be considered private hire and the fee information follows:

DESTINATION FEE MILEAGE MILEAGE FEE TOTAL COST

Charlottesville Greyhound /Amtrak $45 68 $37 $82.00

Charlottesville Airport (CHO) $45 89 $48 $93.00

Richmond Airport (RIC) $50 127 $69 $119.00

Richmond Amtrak (Staples Mill Road) $50 106 $57 $107.00

Richmond Greyhound $50 106 $57 $107.00

Washington D.C. Dulles Airport (IAD) $100 236 $127 $227.00

Washington D.C. Reagan National (DCA) $100 265 $143 $243.00

ESCORT SERVICE

Children who are underage according to the airlines’ rules must be escorted to the ticket counter and through security by an adult whose name is provided to the airline by the parent. Per FAA regulation, a designated adult is required to remain at the terminal until the child boards the plane and until the plane takes off from the runway. Because of this regulation, cadets who require “unescorted minor” services must be transported to the airport by the escort, using Academy “private hire” transportation. This individualized service does result in a significant cost to the parent and varies depending on which airport is utilized (see the Private Hire Fees above.) In addition, the airline typically charges its own unaccompanied minor fee. As of September, United Airlines, Air Tran, Continental, and Southwest require boys be at least 12 to fly unescorted. Jet Blue requires that they be 14 or older. American Airlines, Northwest, Delta and US Air require a child be at least 15 to fly without an escort. Please keep these age requirements in mind as you make plans for future flights for your son.

The parent of the child requiring “unaccompanied minor” services must provide the airline advanced notice of the name and phone number of the person escorting the minor through the airport and to his flight. The parent must also provide the airline the name and phone number of the individual who is meeting the child at the final destination. This information is provided when the parent contracts the airline for the “unaccompanied minor” service. Amtrak and Greyhound may have similar requirements. Please check with Greyhound bus line to determine if this is the case should you decide on bus travel for your son’s mode of transportation. (This does not pertain to the bus companies utilized by the academy to transport cadets directly from FUMA to a transportation hub.)

Alternative scheduled transportation can be arranged if scheduled times are not suitable. The academy will endeavor to hire a driver to make the trip (see the Private Hire Fees attached.) The cost of escort service is $25.00 each way and will be charged to the cadet’s tuition account.

The buses which leave Fork Union for major leaves are chartered. Please note that the drivers of these chartered buses cannot leave their coaches to assist cadets in any way once the cadet departs the bus. The schedule of departure and arrival along with fees are printed on the Bus Schedule. These forms are used for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Spring Break only.