Is there a cost to the parent or legal guardian?
Parents are not required to pay tuition or other costs associated with the program. The Academy enrollment is free. However, some clothing and other necessary items may have to be purchased by the parent or legal guardian.
Is the parent or legal guardian's employment salary a disqualification for the applicant's enrollment? No, the parent or legal guardian's employment salary is not a factor for the applicant's enrollment qualification process.
What ages do you accept?
Applicants must be male or female between 16 and 19 years of age on the start date for in processing.
When can the cadet have family visitation?
No visitation is allowed during the first two weeks. Limited visitation after the first two weeks is about the sixth week; a nine hour Family Day visit. The next nine hour Family Day visitation will be scheduled at the end of the tenth week. On both occasions the family is allowed to bring food to enjoy with their cadet. Mentors must contact the Mentor Coordinator for approval to visit the cadet at any other time. Mentor visitation is limited to the Mentor only.
Can the cadet write or receive mail?
Yes, your cadet will receive mail, and is encouraged to write home.
When can the cadet make phone calls? Can the cadet call me?
No, you may not call your cadet directly. You must call your cadet's assigned counselor to first address any concern or issue. The counselor will then make the decision on whether or not to allow you to talk to your cadet. Your cadet will have the privileged to make phone calls at the end of the third week, usually on weekends.
Will the cadet receive a High School Diploma or a GED?
The "High School Diploma" that all GED (General Education Diploma) graduates, receive is truly a high school diploma, but it is based on a test result. A diploma from a regular high school is based on performance during a four year curriculum of 4 credits of English, 3 credits of Math, 3 credits of Science, 3 credits of Social studies, and various other subjects. Maryland ChalleNGe Academy graduates must complete and receive a passing score on tests designed to measure his/her knowledge and skills in these same areas of the traditional curriculum. However, it is treated differently by the military services. The Academy is aware of the confusion. The diploma is granted by the Maryland State Department of Education and is called a high school diploma. The military recruiters will inform the potential recruit who has been issued a State Diploma (GED) that he/she can take classes at a community college and improve his/her status (15 credit hrs) with the Military. Please be advised that the US Army, the Maryland Army National Guard, and the Maryland Air National Guard do not discriminate between the two different types of high school diplomas in Maryland. Most colleges and trade schools will accept the Maryland state issued High School Diploma.
MEDICAL
My child takes medication for ASTHMA, is this disqualifying?
NO…asthma is not considered disqualifying for admission into the Academy. Many cadets routinely carry their inhalers and make it successfully through the program. It is the parent's responsibility to ensure the cadet has sufficient inhaler and other medication to properly treat the cadet's condition as directed by the cadet's physician.
What medical conditions are disqualifying?
The quick answer is there are NO medical conditions that are disqualifying for admission into the Academy. However, the child must be able to successfully complete the 8 Core Components, one of which is Physical Fitness. The Physical Fitness core component is comprised of the Presidents Fitness Challenge.
What happens if my child gets injured while attending the Academy?
All injured cadets are brought to the medical section by Academy staff members where they are assessed and evaluated. Injuries that can be treated within the scope of practice of the medical section are treated and the cadet is returned to duty. Injuries requiring immediate medical attention beyond the scope of care of our medical section are transported to the local civilian hospital. Parents/guardians are always notified when a cadet is transported to the local civilian hospital.
Why is a physical required prior to admission to the Academy?
All cadets require a physical examination by a licensed physician to ensure all cadets arrive at the Academy in a healthy state. The rigors of Academy life are many and a healthy cadet has a greater chance of successful completion. A physical examination may disclose a previously undiagnosed medical condition which may require special attention or medication.
If my child has already received all of their immunizations do they need to get them all over again?
NO. You will be required to bring a copy of your child's immunization record as proof of immunizations at the time of in-processing. Your child's current immunization record should be verified with your physician prior to in-processing and any required immunizations required for admission into
Why do you need copies of my medical/dental/pharmacy insurance cards?
When care is required beyond the scope of practice of the Academy medical facility cadets are transported to the local civilian hospital for treatment. Proof of medical insurance as evidenced by the copy you provide to us assists the treating hospital in providing timely care for your child. Any co-pays required by your private insurance remain your responsibility.
