November 25, 2009
November 25, 2009
Federal funding, smaller class sizes allow program to continue
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that thanks to a new federal law, the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy, a 22-week residential program for high school dropouts sponsored by the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, will continue in the 2010 fiscal year.
"For more than a decade, the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy has helped young adults turn their lives around, and today these graduates are working in our communities, attending our universities or serving in our military," Granholm said. "We are pleased that our partners in Washington have helped make it possible for this program to continue in these tough economic times."
Michigan will be the first state in the nation to operate the program with 75 percent federal funds matched by 25 percent state funds, which will allow the academy to remain open though it will be downsized by 50 percent.
Traditionally, the academy graduates more than 250 students a year. Most graduates earn a General Education Diploma (GED). Nearly 90 percent of them find work, go to college or vocational school, or enter the military. The academy was facing a December 26 closure date due to state budget cuts.
Over the years, behavior problems, poor performance and a variety of other issues led more than 1,900 Michigan kids to the academy for a formally structured, five-month residential program designed to put them on a successful education track. Students, referred to as cadets, are required to meet high physical and academic standards in addition to completing 40 hours of community service.
"I've talked with these kids when they first enter the program and then again on graduation day, and they are changed young adults with great purpose and pride for their future," said Maj. Gen. Thomas G. Cutler, director of Military and Veterans Affairs. "I couldn't be prouder of what they have accomplished."
Brig. Gen. Roger Allen, director of the Michigan Challenge Academy, described the program as "quasi-military" in terms of structure, uniforms and respect for authority. However, there is no military service obligation or fee to attend the program.
"Kids leave here with the values, skills, education and self-discipline that is necessary to succeed in the adult world," said Allen. "They are stronger, smarter, tougher and more mature individuals as a reflection of their own hard work, and they gain a confidence in themselves that cannot be measured by any price tag. They become assets to the community and humanity as a whole."
The current class will graduate December 6 while the new class starts in January.
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