About the Washington Youth Academy
The Washington Youth Academy (WYA) is a division of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program. Established under authority of both federal and state law, the WYA is a state-run residential and post-residential program for 16-19 year olds who have dropped out of high school or are at risk of dropping out.
The Washington Youth Academy is a quasi-military training and mentoring program for at-risk youth. The goal of the program is to give youth a second chance to become responsible and productive citizens by helping them improve their life skills, education levels, and employment potential.
The program incorporates a highly structured format, with an emphasis on student discipline and personal responsibility to provide a positive, safe, and secure learning environment.
Pre-Challenge Phase
The first two weeks of the program is the Pre-Challenge phase. Candidates are assessed to determine their potential for successfully completing the program. Candidates learn to adjust to the physical, mental, and social discipline of the program. The focus is on leadership, teamwork, code of conduct, and physical fitness training. Candidates who successfully complete the Pre-Challenge Phase will earn the distinction of becoming a WYA cadet and proceed to the Challenge Phase, also known as the Residential Phase.
Residential Phase
The 20 week Residential Phase provides cadets opportunities to make basic lifestyle changes that are approached through a rigorous program of education, training, and service to community. Cadets focus on eight core components that develop the whole person in terms of mind, body and personal values. Emphasis is on self-discipline, self-esteem, education and development of healthy lifestyles. Cadets are matched with a caring, adult, volunteer mentor from their home community who works to support and encourage the youth's development of an action plan. A cadet's action plan outlines their personal education, career, housing, and transportation goals for the next phase of the program.
Post-Residential Phase
After cadets graduate from the Residential Phase, they return to their communities. Graduates continue to build upon their relationship with their established mentor who serves as a positive role model for the next 12 months and beyond. Mentors are committed to helping WYA graduates achieve their post-graduation goals.
Eligibility Requirements
- 16 to 19 years of age (at the time of entry into and graduation from the program).
- A high school dropout, expellee or at risk of dropping out
- A citizen or legal resident of the United States and a Washington State resident.
- Unemployed or underemployed.
- Not currently on parole or probation for other than juvenile status offenses not awaiting sentencing, and not under indictment, charged or convicted of a felony.
- Free from use of alcohol and illegal drugs or substances.
- Physically and mentally capable to participate in the program with reasonable accommodation.