Congressman Josh Harder has secured a commitment from the U.S. Department of War to reverse the termination of the ChalleNGe Academy located at Sharpe Depot in Lathrop,
“This program means better grades, diplomas, and lifelong career success for the kids in our community who are struggling the most, and it’s insane that Washington bureaucrats thought they could get away with messing with our kids’ futures,” Harder said.
The military-style academy established in 2018 is a joint effort of the San Joaquin County Office of Education and the California National Guard.
The 22-week residential program involving at-risk students – both boys and girls, ages 16 through 18 — has helped over 1,200 students graduate and start successful careers.
Through the academy, they’ve learned leadership, cooperation, and academic skills while building self-esteem, pride and confidence in a highly structured environment, according to the San Joaquin County Office of Education.
Along the way, they earn 65 high school credits to go along with at least 40 hours of community service.
The cadets either earn enough credits to obtain their high school diplomas or return to their high school to complete their education.
SJCOE added that all cadets will continue being involved in the Academy via the year-long mentorship program.
“We are extremely pleased with the news that students across Northern California will continue to have access to the transformative program that is the Discovery ChalleNGe Academy,” San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools Troy Brown said.
“This program’s impact extends beyond achievement in the classroom. It builds dependable, responsible high school graduates and citizens who strengthen their communities. We are thankful for all the supporters who spoke in support of DCA, especially Rep. Harder and his team for their advocacy and sense of urgency in preserving this life-changing program.”
The academy is a lifeline for struggling students in the valley as it offers:
*High-impact intervention – through a partnership with the California National Guard and the San Joaquin County Office of Education, DCA provides a structured, 22-week residential program for local at-risk youth aged 16-18.
*Educational Excellence – Students in the program see their GPAs double on average, can earn high school diplomas, develop a wide range of technical skills, and go on to lead successful careers in and outside of the military.
*Community Force Multiplier – DCA contributes over 27,000 hours of local community service, supports dozens of jobs, and doubles the economic impact of every dollar invested in the program.
“We’re grateful for Congressman Josh Harder’s swift and decisive action to secure this outcome, along with Governor Gavin Newsom’s support and the coordinated efforts of our congressional delegation, whose work ensures this program can continue delivering for California’s youth,” said General Matthew Beevers, Adjutant General of the California National Guard.
