Academy for struggling teens now accepting applications

Wisconsin National Guard Public Affairs Office

A no-cost alternative program for "at-risk" youth, the Wisconsin Challenge Academy is now accepting applications for its next class of cadets entering on July 19. Located at Fort McCoy, Wis., the Academy offers teens that are at risk of not graduating a chance to earn their High School Equivalency Diploma, learn essential job and life-coping skills and, most importantly, develop the strength of character to become responsible citizens.

To qualify for this program - which is no cost to families - applicants, both male and female, must be at least 16 years and nine months old but not yet 19, have dropped out of school, been expelled, or become at least a year behind in credits. Candidates must not have been convicted of a felony and cannot be on adult parole or probation at time of entry.

"Deciding to attend this program was definitely the hardest decision I've made in my life so far," Kayla Kurzynski, a current cadet at the Challenge Academy, said. "Before Challenge Academy I was skipping school, hanging around negative influences and not only messing up my own life, but also setting the example my younger siblings were beginning to follow. I knew I had to put a stop to that cycle. Now, because of Challenge Academy I am working towards a future that not only I can be proud of, but my family as well."

For someone who has the desire to get his or her life back on the right path, the Challenge Academy may be a step in the right direction. Call the Admissions Department toll-free at (866) 968-8422 or (608) 269-4605 for an application, or visit the Challenge Academy's website (ChallengeAcademy.org).