MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. - High school students participating in the Summer Leadership and Character Development Academy are briefed on their mission before going on patrol at the Basic School, Aug. 8. The SLCDA is a weeklong course designed to teach Marine Corps leadership skills, personal character and ethics to the next generation of leaders. - MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. - High school students participating in the Summer Leadership and Character Development Academy are briefed on their mission before going on patrol at the Basic School, Aug. 8. The SLCDA is a weeklong course designed to teach Marine Corps leadership skills, personal character and ethics to the next generation of leaders.