Academy for struggling teens accepting applications

Contact: Pete Blum
Office: 608-269-8040

Before attending the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy, Christopher Woessner of Muskego said he was "unmotivated, not doing school work, and going nowhere. All I cared about was having fun and hanging out with my friends."

Now halfway through the residential phase of the Challenge Academy, Cadet Woessner is earning academic honors, on the drill team and received recognition as a Cadet First Class. After graduation he hopes to work full time, attend college and eventually become a physical education teacher.

A no-cost alternative program for "at-risk" youth, the Wisconsin Challenge Academy is accepting applications for its next class of cadets entering on Jan. 14, 2010. Located at Fort McCoy, Wis., the Academy offers high school dropouts or habitual truants 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 tuition-free program, applicants 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.

"This is one of the best things you will do for yourself," a recent Challenge Academy graduate said. "It is not easy, but it is worth it when you’re done. The Challenge Academy helps you look towards your future."

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 at (609) 269- 4605 for an application, or visit the Challenge Academy’s website at www.challengeacademy.org.