The word sham is something often associated with a negative perspective.  We use the word loosely when we say ShamSchool.  Our interpretation of the word is based upon doing something with less effort.  For someone to say "Smith has a sham-job".  This is of no fault to Smith.  He is either smart enough or lucky enough to have an easy job.  Based on this analogy we use the name ShamSchool, to define an easier way to train or educate soldiers and leaders.

The resources provided by the Army to further train a soldier are lacking.  There is no community to ask questions and only certain topics are covered.  They are often difficult to navigate and that is if you can find them.  We try to make everything here as organized as possible and include as much information as possible.  Other resources that the Army does not offer such as templates for counseling's, awards, and NCOER's can be found here.  We include these because even though someone may be a great leader, creative writing should not be considered a part of that.

Other communities on the internet give the impression that they only have a community to go along with the demand.  They are of little or no help to anyone that uses that community.  For example, ArmyStudyGuide.com is a web site based upon studying for the promotion board. They have a large community with a forum.  Occasionally someone will ask a question and be reprimanded for not knowing prior to receiving the answer.  They also censor the forum and tend to delete topics and accounts based on their own opinions.  We have seen one user have his account deleted because the name was "FTA".  One moderator made the assumption this meant "F*** the Army" and deleted the account.  The soldier was having difficulties at work and instead of receiving an answer, he was banned.

This is one example, but we have seen several across the internet.  It is why we have chosen to have an open community without censoring our community.  We want our primary focus to be helping the soldiers and if they hate the Army, for whatever reason, possibly try to convince them otherwise and assist them through their tough times they are currently having. 

We are not a group of "Disgruntled soldiers".  Despite we may have a few.  The majority of us here, both members and moderators, come here to better ourselves.  Our members are here looking for training or consultation.  Those that come here to "vent" or express what they hate about the Army are allowed to do so.  Expressing their opinions allows them a chance to relieve their stress, just as it would to talk to a counselor or the unit Chaplin.  It is therapeutic and helpful.  It also offers other soldiers to learn from their mistakes.

According to media coverage we are appalled to think that we are a "cheating" site.  Our logo has been "Soldiers helping Soldiers" for some time.  On August 12, 2007 we adapted the word "Learn" to the end of that in hopes to show our real intent.  We are here to help soldiers, and have been living up to that since August 31, 2006 when we first started this site.