Well, as the song by Thin Lizzy goes "The Boys are Back in Town." Now that classes have begun and the cadets are back to the academic grind, we would like to introduce you to your son's TAC Officer. Each cadet is assigned to a Company and with each Company a TAC Officer oversees the daily activities outside of the classroom. They are the ones most responsible for your cadet's well-being during the course of the day and evening. This information is also posted on page 19 of the "Information for Parents from the Commandant's Department" in the download center of the FUMA website.

To call after Hours:

Night TAC: 434-842-4232
Guard Desk: 434-842-4241

Advisors for Cadets
 
In addition to the TAC Officers, each cadet has been assigned an Advisor. This individual is a faculty or staff member at the Academy that assists the cadets in their transition to FUMA. They serve as an additional point of contact for the cadets. Each advisor meets informally with a group of approximately 10 cadets twice a month. Some topics include academic achievements, college plans, socialization and adjustment to life at FUMA.

They provide another avenue for adult supervision and mentoring for your son. You will receive the name of your son's advisor. During the course of the year an advisor may also follow up with you regarding any successes, issues or concerns relating to your cadet.

In the upcoming weeks, the FUMA website www.forkunion.com will provide a new look to our staff directory providing staff/faculty bios, pictures and contact information. Therefore, you will be able to put a name and face together when you contact someone at the Academy.

One final note - the first leave weekend is just around the corner!  Each cadet is allowed one leave weekend prior to Parents Weekend on October 18th.  Two leaves are listed on the school calendar for September 26th and October 3rd, and your son, if eligible and not obligated athletically, is allowed to choose which weekend he would like to take.

On Saturday, September 20th (a much anticipated date for most parents) around 4:00 PM the telephones will be turned on!  This will allow plenty of time to make leave plans with your son.  On a "regular" leave weekend such as this, the leave will begin after class at 12:30 PM on Friday, and all should return no later than 7:30 PM on Sunday.

If you have leave questions, or have not yet submitted the required "Leave Permission Form," please contact Mrs. Ivens at ivensb@fuma.org or (434)842-4231.