For several years, as I have represented KMBC, I have been telling people that KMBC is a specialty school that trains youth how to do ministry and how to be spiritual leaders. KMBC is like a spiritual West Point. West Point trains youth to be outstanding leaders in the U.S. Army – KMBC trains youth to be outstanding leaders in the Lord’s Army. This summer, my wife and I vacationed in the North East and visited West Point. It was the high point of our vacation. I was impressed with the many similarities that exist between the two schools. Here is a list of some similarities that I observed.

WAYS THAT KMBC AND WEST POINT ARE SIMILAR

1. Time-honored traditions are used as teaching tools.
2. The history of the schools is revered; certain things are held sacred.
3. The schools have a clearly articulated dress code.
4. They seek to develop the whole person, striving for excellence in every area of life.
5. Discipline is emphasized.
6. The schools strongly emphasize character development.
7. Servant-hood and submission to authority are emphasized.
8. Leadership is taught and cultivated in students’ lives.
9. There is a high code of honor. West Point: “I will not lie, cheat, or steal or tolerate those who do.”
10. Noon meals are family style.
11. There is a low student-teacher ratio. At West Point it is 10-1.
12. There is a lot of hands-on learning.
13. The cultures are very structured, with specific rules.
14. Staff are expected to be role models.
15. Students are pushed hard to excel.
16. Change in rules and ethos are implemented with considerable thought and caution.
17. The graduates of both schools have had an impressive history of success.
18. Both schools have remained true to their original mission – preparing top-quality soldiers for their respective armies.

After I visited West Point I thought, “We must be doing something right to have so many things in common with perhaps the most famous leadership training school in the world.” I was impressed that almost every famous general since the War of 1812 (that I have read about), graduated from West Point. What an awesome impact on our country and our world. It has succeeded in training a host of successful and influential leaders. I am proud that KMBC is seeking to do the same in the Christian world. We are seeking to produce a new generation of Christian leaders who are committed to holy living and have a passion to impact their world for Christ!