Academic Curriculum

The Montana Youth ChalleNGe Program (MYCP) was officially accredited by the North West Association of Accredited Schools in June 2007 as a special purpose school.  Accreditation of the program wil allow for transfer of academic credit earned at  MYCP to a school that the student may be attending following graduation from ChalleNGe.

The ChalleNGe Program uses The Adult Basic Education (TABE) test to measure incoming and outgoing performance that correlates to traditional secondary school grade levels. This initial assessment of skill level is conducted soon after arrival. Teachers use the results from this assessment to develop individualized education plans.  The ChalleNGe Program provides individualized instruction based on each Cadet's personal needs in order to prepare the Cadet to take and pass the GED test. Classes are concentrated in the five areas tested on the General Education Development (GED) certificate test; Math, Science, Social Studies, Literature and The Arts, and Writing Skills/ Essay.

The exit TABE test determines the successful completion of the Academic Excellence Core Component and is given approximately 20 weeks into the program.

Academic classes are taught in the classroom and in computer labs where each student works on lessons designed to reinforce their classroom instruction. The computer lessons are self-paced allowing Cadets to progress at their own level of proficiency.

A Pre-GED test is given to each Cadet to determine if he or she is ready to take the GED. Cadets in need of additional study or tutoring are given additional training in their weak areas. Tutoring is provided in a group or individualized setting according to the needs of the student.

While not a requirement for graduating from the ChalleNGe Program, obtaining a GED is the primary reason many Montana youth choose to attend the Montana Youth ChalleNGe Program. There are multiple opportunities for Cadets to test for their GED during the Residential Phase.

Students selected to take the first GED test will be enrolled in college classes at the University of Montana - Western and given the opportunity to earn 4 college credits at no cost to the student.  In addition to the core areas of study cadets can choose from several electives. These classes provide the Cadet an opportunity to explore new areas or to do something they enjoy. Some of the elective classes are  Woodshop, Arts & Crafts, and training to take the written test in order to obtain a state of Montana drivers license.