(Dodge County) Two Dodge County residents recently graduated from the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy. The individuals from Horicon and Reeseville were just two of the 112 graduates from 40 Wisconsin counties during the ceremony at Mauston High School on Wednesday.
Graduates from the academy earned a high school equivalency diploma and up to 16 college credits. The volunteer Challenge Academy is a cost-free alternative education program that re-shapes the lives of 16-to18-year-olds at risk of not graduating from high school.
It uses a structured, military-style environment and state-certified teachers and counselors to build Cadets’ academic abilities, character, self-confidence and personal discipline.
After graduating from the 22-week residential phase of academy training, Cadets work with hometown mentors who offer guidance and encouragement in pursuing their new direction in life.
The National Guard Youth Challenge Program currently operates 39 programs in 28 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. Nationwide, more than 200,000 have graduated.
The next class will begin on July 24. Those interested in applying can call the Challege Academy at (866)-968-8422 or click HERE to apply online.
