Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy

Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy is a volunteer, tuition-free, fully accredited residential high school academy for Idaho residents ages 15½ to 18. The program begins with a two-week Acclimation Phase that focuses on leadership, teamwork, code of conduct, and physical fitness training. It then moves into a 22-week Residential Phase, where cadets work on eight core components.

Programs

• Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy — Open to 15-½ to 18 year old Idaho residents; mission says 16-18 year old high school dropouts · Volunteer, tuition-free, fully-accredited residential high school academy; participation is voluntary; not a boot camp, detention or treatment facility

At a glance

• Ages: 15–18 years old
• General schedule: A state-run residential and post-residential intervention with a 29-1/2 month commitment. It begins with a two-week Acclimation Phase, followed by a 22-week Residential Phase, then a Post-Residential Phase. Staff continue to contact youth for the next two years after the Residential Phase.

About the provider

The mission of the Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy is to intervene in and reclaim the lives of 16- to 18-year-old high school dropouts. The program is a state-run residential and post-residential intervention with a 29½-month commitment, and staff continue to contact youth for the next two years after the Residential Phase. The program is open to all students without regard to race, sex, religious affiliation, or household income.

Open to all 15-½ to 18 year old Idaho residents. The program is open to all students without regard to race, sex, religious affiliation or household income. Candidates learn to adjust to the physical, mental, and social discipline of the program. The focus in the Acclimation Phase is on leadership, teamwork, code of conduct, and physical fitness training. Cadets work on eight core components during the Residential Phase.

Last updated November 4, 2026.