What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commandant of Cadets position at Benedictine College Preparatory?
Job Title: Commandant - Leadership Instructor
Location: Benedictine Schools of Richmond
Reports to: Head of School (Benedictine College Preparatory)
Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports to: Head of School (Benedictine College Preparatory)
Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
The Benedictine Schools of Richmond are Catholic college preparatory high schools—Saint Gertrude High School and Benedictine College Preparatory—co-located on the 73-acre Benedictine Abbey campus in Richmond, Virginia. For more than 100 years, the schools have offered single-sex education founded on the mutual complementarity of women and men and the equal dignity of all human people. We provide a common Catholic culture, steeped in Benedictine values, that promotes the education of the whole person—body, mind and spirit.
The boys’ school, Benedictine College Preparatory, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Commandant to direct the leadership, discipline, and character development of our students. As the top member of our military cadre, the Commandant will oversee all Cadet training, instill values of leadership and integrity, and ensure the military program aligns with the school's Catholic mission. The ideal candidate will have a strong military background, a passion for mentoring young men, and a commitment to fostering a disciplined yet nurturing environment.
Primary Responsibilities:
Leadership & Training:
- Direct and oversee the school’s military program, including drills, inspections, and physical training.
- Prepare students for leadership roles within the Corps of Cadets, instilling discipline, teamwork, and accountability.
- Organize proper orientation practices for freshmen Cadets and drill practices for all Cadets.
- Provide instruction on military customs, courtesies, and history.
Cadet Development & Supervision:
- Act as the primary role model and mentor, guiding Cadets in personal responsibility and ethical decision-making.
- Monitor and evaluate Cadets’ progress in leadership, academics, and personal development.
- Coordinate and execute military ceremonies, parades, and special events.
- Presence at morning and afternoon formation.
- Encourage and reinforce Catholic values through character-building experiences.
- Serve as the administrator most responsible for the supervision, welfare, and conduct of the Corps of Cadets comprising over 300 cadets in grades 9 –12.
Teaching:
- Serve as the Department Chair of the Leadership faculty, teaching courses as assigned (LET is mandatory for all Cadets each year).
- Develop and implement a curriculum that deepens the students' understanding of military science, leadership principles, and character development courses.
- Foster a classroom environment that encourages respectful dialogue and reflection.
Administrative & Operational Duties:
- Maintain accurate records of all Cadet performance, attendance, and program participation.
- Coordinate with school leadership, faculty, and parents to support Cadets' academic and personal growth.
- Ensure compliance with school policies and military program requirements.
- Manage uniforms, equipment, and other military program resources.
Community Engagement:
- Assist in supervising and motivating the student section at athletic and school-spirit events to promote discipline, unity, and positive representation of the Corps.
- Build strong rapport and a professional, supportive working environment with adult military cadre, fostering teamwork and consistent leadership standards.
- Participate actively in all faculty meetings to maintain alignment with academic staff, school initiatives, and overall institutional goals.
- Communicate proactively with parents regarding school events, military expectations, and student performance to strengthen school–home partnerships.
- Collaborate regularly with faculty and staff to coordinate school events, maintain consistent classroom procedures, and address student discipline in a unified and effective manner.
- Model and reinforce high standards of military appearance and bearing at all public events, ensuring Cadets present themselves with pride and professionalism.
Qualifications:
Education and Experience:
- Military Experience: Prior service in the U.S. Armed Forces (Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard); experience in leadership roles preferred.
- Education: High school diploma required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred.
- Leadership & Teaching Experience: Experience in training, mentoring, or instructing young individuals (preferably high school-aged).
- Physical Fitness: Ability to participate in and lead physical training activities.
- Commitment to Faith & Values: Willingness to uphold the Catholic values and traditions of the school.
Work Environment & Schedule:
- Full-time, in-person position with some evening, weekend, or overnight responsibilities for events and training exercises.
- Active, hands-on role requiring engagement with students in various physical and academic settings.
- Responsible for executing all military ceremonies and events.
Skills and Abilities:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative spirit and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders in the school community.
- Ability to teach effectively and connect with high school students in the classroom.
To apply: please submit a cover letter, resume, and a completed application to the Human Resources Manager, Jaime Harmeyer, at jharmeyer@benedictineschools.org