Discovery ChalleNGe Academy

Discovery ChalleNGe Academy is a free 22-week residential, quasi-military style program. Students can earn 65 high school credits and may earn a diploma. Cadets take part in workshops and skills training, volunteer for community projects and agencies such as the American Cancer Society and Special Olympics, and complete at least 40 hours of community service.

Programs

• Discovery ChalleNGe Academy — 16-18 · Free 22-week residential, quasi-military style program; students can earn 65 high school credits and may earn a diploma.

At a glance

• Ages: 16–18 years old
• General schedule: Two sessions each year that begin in January and July. The 22-week residential program includes an Acclimation phase for the first two weeks and a Challenge phase for the remaining 20 weeks.

About the provider

The Discovery Youth ChalleNGe Program has helped students since 2017. It is operated by the California National Guard in partnership with the San Joaquin County Office of Education. The program description says it is for teens ages 16-18 and lists two sessions each year that begin in January and July, with an Acclimation phase for the first two weeks and a Challenge phase for the remaining 20 weeks.

Applications are accepted now. Eligible students must attend an orientation and complete a questionnaire before a full application. Orientation is mandatory. The program is voluntary; no parent, judge, probation office, or school administrator can order participation. Students must be age 16 and will not turn 19 before the start of the program, be legal residents of the United States and California, be at risk of dropping out or credit deficient, be free of felony convictions, and be residents of Northern California. DACA students are accepted.

Last updated September 3, 2026.