May 13, 2008
 
Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy Slates Final Push for July Class
Orientation Days are May 20, 21
 
Special to Huntingtonnews.net
 

Kingwood, WV (HNN) -- The Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy has openings in Class #31 that begins July 13. If you’re a WV teen between 16 and 19 who hasn’t found success in high school, the Academy wants you to apply. This opportunity could be just what you need. Today’s the day to call for more information. Final Orientation Days are Monday May 20 and Tuesday, May 21.
 
WV School Code allows all enrolled students at the Academy to be transferred from their high school. Following their successful completion of the program, the school counts them as “completers” not drop outs. The school system keeps the funding, the State’s drop out rate is reduced, and another teen has completed their basic education. It’s a win-win situation.
 
The Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy, located at Camp Dawson near Kingwood, has a 22-week residential phase that makes learning fun. Team building activities such as vehicle relocation, field training exercises, spider webs, and pond crossing make our classrooms different. Life coping classes and GED preparation help prepare the Cadets for their transition into the future. The MCA also has a one-year mentoring phase after graduation. It’s free but there are concerns involved with the cost transportation. To address this concern, the Academy has: Reduced number of items required for Opening Day Reduced number of trips to the MCA Compared the cost of gas to what it would take to feed and clothe the child for 6 months
 
One requirement for acceptance is to attend an orientation session at the MCA. There are two orientation days remaining - May 20 and 21. (Check the website – another date may be added.) These dates are also ‘Open House’ days. All interested teens must be there at 10 a.m.. Submission of a written application is not needed. However, a phone call is recommended to get more details and directions. Point of contact is Ms. Georgeanna Cathell (ext 201).
 
Visit the website www.wvchallenge.org or call 1-800-529-7700.