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National Guard Youth Challenge Parents & Potential Applicants:
<br>Please Read the letter posted in the NEWS Section for important Info about Alabama Academy Closure!
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FAQ
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What is the Alabama National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy?
What is the purpose of ChalleNGe?
How can I apply to Youth ChalleNGe?
When does the program start?
Are there any costs to the participants of this program?
Will I be able to get a GED at ChalleNGe?
Is military service required upon completion of the ChalleNGe Program?
Is military service an option after graduating from the ChalleNGe Program?
Is this a voluntary program?
What is Mentoring?
What is the TABE test?
Where can I take the TABE test?
What items should I bring?


>>What is the Alabama National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy?
ChalleNGe is a co-educational, 17-month program for 16-18 year old high school dropouts. Currently, there are 30 ChalleNGe programs in 25 states and the territory of Puerto Rico.  Cadets must be drug-free, not in trouble with the law and high school dropouts. The program consists of a 5 1/2-month quasi-military Residential Phase and is followed by a 12-month Post-Residential Phase. 

>>What is the purpose of ChalleNGe?
The purpose of the ChalleNGe Program is to develop the life skills, educational levels, and employment potential of at-risk youth through a structured intervention model. The ChalleNGe model focuses on eight core components that together improve cadet skills and facilitate holistic growth.


>>How can I apply to Youth ChalleNGe?
Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements .

>>When does the program start?
  

>>Are there any costs to participants of this program?
NO. This program is offered free of charge to its participants.

>>Will I be able to get a GED at ChalleNGe?
Academic classes are offered at every ChalleNGe program. Many youth are able to obtain their GED during the 5 1/2-month Residential Phase, but all youth are expected to raise their math and reading levels in order to graduate from the program.

>>Is military service required upon completion of the ChalleNGe Program?
No.  Although ChalleNGe is 'quasi-military' in structure, cadets are not obligated or expected to join the service.

>>Is military service an option after graduating from the ChalleNGe Program?
YES.  Completion of the ChalleNGe program with a GED enables graduates to enlist in the service.

>>Is this a voluntary program?
YES.  All youth participating in ChalleNGe must do so VOLUNTARILY.

>>What is Mentoring?
Mentoring is the presence of a caring responsible adult who, along with the guardian or parent, provides support, motivation, guidance, advice and friendship in order to help a young person succeed. 

>>What is the TABE test?
TABE, the Test for Adult Basic Education, is a diagnostic test used to determine a person's skill levels and aptitudes.  Math and Reading scores are required for acceptance in the Academy.

>>Where can I take the TABE test?
The TABE test are primarily administered through the Adult Education Department of your local community college.

>>What items should I bring?
There is a packing list of items to bring when you come.  Please pay close attention to which items apply to you.      
Cadet Packing List