Yes, I am aware of the “controversy” surrounding NAPS and admissions and whatnot. No, I’m not going to talk about it beyond the few sentences you’re about to read.
Nothing whips up page views for the Capital quite like a Naval Academy argument, and that’s all we have here: the Capital stirring a non-existent pot. Now that the Bruce Fleming admissions crusade has sort of run its course (at least until he writes his next book), the Capital has simply redirected those same arguments toward the prep school. What? NAPS is a “back door” for candidates with lower grades to get into USNA? No shit, assholes. That’s what it’s always been there for. Strangely, not everyone shares the opinion that SAT scores are the alpha and omega of what makes for a good naval officer. The prep school is a way to get those candidates with potential– but lower scores– the chance to prepare for the academic rigors of USNA life. It couldn’t be more straightforward, but by repeatedly using phrases like “back door” the Capital is clearly trying to cast NAPS as some shady, secret enterprise. The whole routine is a joke.
Take a close look at this article. What is the story? That a Naval Academy graduate wrote an e-mail to a senator. That’s it. I mean, really? This is news? I’m a Naval Academy graduate, Earl. Would anyone write a story if I sent a few e-mails? That newsprint was wasted on something as ridiculous as some random disgruntled grad shooting e-mails to Jim Webb just illustrates the Capital’s intent. My link to that pathetic “story” is as close as I’ll come to playing along.
If you think the Academy should do away with the admissions board altogether and just accept the top 1000 SAT scores that apply, good for you. I’ve already responded to that. I’ll respond to a new argument when someone actually makes one.
The Birddog 
Totally agree that SAT scores are not the end-all-be-all. But should there be a “standard” or “minimum” for Canoe U? And should that standard be applied to every candidate? Lots of applicants out there, and there are probably lots of good leaders with certain “standard” scores.
No shame in having NAPS to help those less prepared to get ready for the academics. But what if someone does not pass NAPS? Should they be allowed in? A “yes” answer has already been given to some. Should there be a “standard” for those at NAPS (ie. actually graduate NAPS)?
You do have to graduate from NAPS to get in.
NAPSters have to re-apply to USNA after successfully completing the prep year. Furthermore, none of the classes NAPSters take can be applied as college credit. They way the school operates (and the students it passes through there) hasn’t significantly changed in 30 years. This is a non-issue.
I wish I had not clicked on the Capital article, I’m dumber for having read it.
I don’t know the bitter Mr Tate – I don’t ever care to meet him – but I am wondering what his motivation is. He’s likely been harboring resentment for Navy athletes since he was a Mid.
On the positive side, Prof Fleming has finally found someone that he can invite to cocktail parties.
Totally agree with you. Regarding whether there should be a standard. There is. It’s called graduation. Young people admitted have to show aptitude to graduate. In the late ’70s my boss was on the admissions board and they believed a 1200 SAT was a minimum to help someone finish the course. Conversely, highest SATs could be used, but lots of those don’t have the energy to lead.
The acadamies are littered with valedictorians and SAT all stars who can’t cut it. My company had 2 valedictorians and 1 1600’er who didn’t make it to reform. On the flipside I know dozens of NAPSters who were VGEP or IGEP or SEALs or Silver Star receipients or double majors or varsity team captains. And I did not go to NAPS.
41 I know there are NAPS failures who have been admitted to USNA directly after failing to achieve a 2.0 at NAPS. I’m surprised that you are not aware of that fact. Passing NAPS is the standard for admission but exceptions have been made.
I do know of one and he wasn’t an athlete. Not saying there haven’t been others, but I don’t travel in those circles so I don’t know.
Mike,
Alum who is complaining about NAPS is same guy who lost lawsuit against USNAAA. Disgruntled lawyer with too much time on his hands. He’s just pivoting to his latest polemic.
I graduated highschool in 2006. There is no reason for someone to label NAPS as a “backdoor” for USNA. I would like to see that same person go through the 9 month process of NAPS and call it “unsatisfactory” or “easy”. I myself was not good enough for NAPS apparently. My dream was to attend USNA ever since I was in middle school. I was rejected 3 times by USNA, twice while I was in college, so I said FU** IT and went straight to USMC O.C.S. (I commission this May, already graduated from college). But I was well aware of the NAPS possibility and I personally had no problem with it what so ever. I’m from The Woodlands, TX…..Alexander Teich whom we are well aware of, his hometown is not far from where I live and he was a NAPster as well. I’d like someone to tell him that he got in through the “back door”.