The WI Challenge Academy
By Katie Lowe, Coordinator of Communications and Technology, AWSA “To offer our Cadets the opportunity to develop the strength of character and the life-skills necessary to become successful, responsible citizens.” Founded in 1998 and located at Fort McCoy, the Wisconsin Challenge Academy is an alternative education program designed to reclaim the lives of at-risk youth and produce graduates with the values, skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as adults. The Academy is part of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, a community-based program that leads, trains, and mentors 16-18 year-olds so that they may become productive citizens in America’s future. Eligibility Requirements:
In November civic leaders from around the state were invited to take a tour of the Challenge Academy and meet with cadets to learn more about this unique opportunity. Cadets shared what prompted them to seek out this experience and what the first few weeks were like. It is hard to imagine a teen willingly participating in something that takes them away from their friends, cell phones, TV and even candy! But given the alternative- not attending school and not graduating on time- these teens have taken a brave step in securing a better future for themselves. They know the short term sacrifices will benefit them in the long run. Students who meet the above criteria volunteer for a 22 week quasi-military education. Cadets who successfully complete the GED exams and complete health, civics, career awareness, and employability skills graduate with a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED). The Challenge Academy has a waiver with DPI allowing Cadets to test at the age of 17 and receive the HSED. The Cadets also receive the Challenge Academy Completion Certificate. The Challenge Academy is completely free. The Challenge Academy holds two class cycles per year. Mid-January through mid-June and mid-July through mid-December. An open house for professionals will be held on April 23, 2024. Visit www.challengeacademy.org to learn more! Program questions can be directed to: |
