NCR Cadet Leadership School
Region Cadet Leadership School is designed for Cadet Officers to learn new skills and knowledge they need to be more effective leaders in their home squadrons and wings. The RCLS blends classroom theory with hands-on training to help cadets truly grasp the concepts being presented. There will be pre-RCLS readings, daily assignments, and group discussions on leadership, ethics, and management. The students that attend the RCLS will be expected to staff themselves and maintain the highest standards of academic performance and behavior. The RCLS is academically challenging and the students will have to manage their own time to ensure that they successfully complete RCLS.
To participate, cadets must have completed an encampment and hold the grade of Cadet Chief Master Sgt. or above.
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The North Central Region Cadet Leadership School (NCR CLS) is an intensive course in officership and indirect leadership tailored for cadets in Phases III and IV of the Cadet Program. Our mission is to develop skilled, ethical, and dedicated executive level cadet officers who excel as leaders within the Civil Air Patrol and their communities.
2026 NCR Course Schedule
The 2026 North Central Region RCLS will be conducted in a hybrid format, combining virtual instruction with an in-person residency:
- Virtual Learning Day: Saturday, September 26, 2026.
- In-Person Session: Wednesday, October 14 – Sunday, October 18, 2026.
○ Arrival: Wednesday evening.
○ Departure: Sunday late morning/early afternoon.
- Location: Camp Ripley, Little Falls, MN.
What to Expect
RCLS blends high-level theory with hands-on practical application. Unlike entry-level or middle management training, this school focuses on five core competencies essential for staff officers and commanders:
- Project Management: Learn to plan, budget, and execute CAP-specific projects from initiation to closeout.
- Organizational Leadership: Master the nuances of command authority, staff integration, and leading change.
- Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Apply data-driven analysis and ethical frameworks to solve real-world problems.
- Interpersonal Skills: Refine your professional communication, mentoring techniques, and emotional intelligence.
- Electives: Engage in experiential learning, such as field trips, keynote seminars, or leadership reaction courses. (varies year to year)
Student Application Information
RCLS is academically challenging; students are expected to "staff themselves," manage their own time, and maintain the highest standards of performance.
● Application Window: August 1 through August 30, 2026, at 2359. (or until full)
- Capacity: Limited to 45 student slots. Apply early to secure your spot!
- Eligibility Requirements:
○ Encampment: Must have successfully completed a CAP encampment.
○ Grade: Must hold the grade of C/CMSgt or above.
■ Note: Cadet Officers will be slotted first, then after the application period (if there are remaining slots) any C/CMSgt applicants will be slotted in the order they applied.
Cadet & Senior Staff Application Information
We are seeking dedicated Phase III & IV cadets and experienced Senior Members to fill key leadership and support roles for the 2026 North Central Region RCLS. All staff must be members in good standing, remain current in Cadet Protection training , and attend the activity in full, including all virtual pre-activity planning sessions.
Positions Available
- Cadet Seminar Advisor - Up to 5 Positions Available
- Senior Seminar Advisor - Up to 5 Positions Available
- Mission Support Officer - 1 Position Available
- Public Affairs Officer - 1 Position Available
- Curriculum & Plans Officer - 1 Position Available
- Health Services Officer - 1 Position Available (SENIOR ONLY)
- Safety Officer - 1 Position Available (SENIOR ONLY)
Role-Specific Requirements
- Cadet Advisors: Highly preferred to be Phase IV (Achievement 12) Cadet Officers by the time of application. Must have previously attended RCLS or Cadet Officer School (COS).
- Senior Advisors: Preferred to have Advanced Cadet Programs specialty track ratings and professional executive-level leadership experience.
- Safety Officer: Must hold a rating in the Safety Specialty Track.
- Health Services Officer: A current medical, nursing, EMT, or related healthcare credential is required.
Student & Staff Applications
All applications (student & staff) and additional information will be posted to Registration Zone.
2026 NCR CLS Registration Zone - LINK
Accommodations: The RCLS Director will make reasonable accommodations for cadets with physical, mental, or learning disabilities. All accommodation requests must be updated in CAP Health no later than September 1st.
Questions & Contact
All questions should be directed to the NCR CLS activity email, rcls@ncr.cap.gov
