Military Boarding School in Alabama for Boys

Lyman Ward Military Academy:
Located in Camp Hill, Tallapoosa County AL (part of the Alexander City Micropolitan Statistical Area), Lyman Ward Military Academy (LWMA) is a private boarding military school for boys that offers a college-preparatory diploma consisting of credits gained from our Junior Cadets (Grades 6-8) and Senior Cadets (Grades 9-12) programs. Cadets take the ACT, SAT, PSAT, PLAN, ASVAB, and Stanford Achievement Tests as appropriate to their grade level, and LWMA offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes in several academic disciplines.

The academy was established in 1898 by a New York Minister in order to bring an education to rural Alabamans who did not have the benefit of public education.

Over the years the academy has evolved into a Military Academy still adhering to the founder's educational philosophy of Judeo-Christian ideas and self reliance. This year we have cadets from thirteen different states and international cadets from China, and Mexico.

At Lyman Ward, we strive to develop boys with good character and attitude, while stressing the importance of physical fitness, vigor and coordination. To accomplish these goals, we believe there is no substitute for the military system of structure and discipline.

A private military boarding academy providing the best in academics, leadership and athletics structured on a foundation of moral and ethical values that develops young men of integrity, competence and excellence who are prepared for the work of life.

Our Vision:
To be widely recognized as the premier military boarding school for young men in the United States.

Quality Teaching Faculty:
Our teaching faculty which average 12 years here at Lyman Ward are supported by the athletic coaches, military department and enforced study hours to encourage academic achievement. Classes are small and our professional teaching staff establishes a close relationship to encourage achievement.

In keeping with the requirements of the State of Alabama and our own high standards, students are required to have four years of English, Math, History and Science. Further courses are offered as electives.

Using the college-style Block/Quarter System, the normal student load for Senior School (Grades 9-12) consists of eight courses per year. Junior School (Grades 6-8) courses are taken for the full school year, with a usual class load of seven classes.

Core Subjects:
- English/Language Arts, Reading, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Biology/ Chemistry/ Physics

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:
- Calculus, English Language & Composition, Macroeconomics, Psychology, Spanish, Statistics, US History, US Government and Politics...

Elective Courses:
- Computer Programming, Digital Publishing, Electronics, Humanities, Journalism, Music, Physical Education, Visual Art...

A full program of competitive sports is the policy at the Academy. In addition to football, basketball, baseball and soccer (in which LWMA competes interscholastically), students enjoy intramural softball, tennis, swimming, volleyball, a competitive rifle team, school paper and many other activities.

Our extensive wooded areas and lakes are particularly inviting to those boys who love the outdoors. Free time on weekends may be devoted to fishing and camping. Largemouth bass as large as 12.5 pounds have been taken from the campus lakes.

During the school year, there are school sponsored outings that the cadets can participate in such as white water rafting, Six Flags Over Georgia, snow skiing, Disney World, JROTC drill competitions and other off-campus activities.

"My son Josh  has transformed into a distinguished, southern military gentleman. His last visit home for Thanksgiving was one of the happiest occasions for my family. Josh has grown and matured into a bright, responsible, capable young man. This is a great success attributed to you fine ladies and gentlemen who played a role in Josh's career at LWMA. Thank you, with the most sincerity."
- Jonna 

"Thank you and your staff from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done for my son. William a:rived at Lyman Ward in August 2010 an immature, undisciplined, and unfocused l7-year old. Nine-months later he is a confident, well-mannered, and respectful young man who maintains an "A" average and has been accepted to college."
- Marge

"During my last visit, I was absolutely blown away with the change I witnessed in my son and the school in general. I watched my son in parade march with confidence and pride. I saw him perform in the Drill Sword Team and could hardly keep the tears from falling. I witnessed as he introduced me to his instructors and showed the upmost respect for their efforts in helping him achieve his best. To all, my deepest and sincere thanks!"
- John D