D.C. National Guard Capital Guardian Youth ChalleNGe Academy graduates first class of cadets

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Commanding General of the DC National Guard, Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz congratulates a CGYCA Cadet at the DC National Guard Capital Guardian Youth ChalleNGe Academy’s first completion Ceremony Dec.

WASHINGTON, DC (12/13/2013)(readMedia)-- Cadets of the District of Columbia National Guard Capital Guardian Youth ChalleNGe Academy were honored in a completion ceremony at the D.C. Armory Dec. 10th.

The 51 youths were members of the first Youth ChalleNGe Academy held at Oak Hill, Md., a rehabilitated detention center turned into a 16 building, state-of-the art educational campus.

"This program has given me a second chance in life." said Jumani Andrews, a member of the graduating class. "I can be more than a statistic."

The Youth ChalleNGe program is designed to give youths who have not completed a regular high school program a second chance. The 4-month residential phase focuses on Graduation Equivalency Exam preparation courses, discipline, physical fitness and leadership. The last week of the program the cadets took their G.E.D. exams and celebrated with a gala.

"I was seen as a product of my environment by some." said Gerry Rubi, who graduated as the cadet of the cycle. "I contributed to those stereotypes. But now I see that destiny is not a matter of chance, it's a matter choice."

The cadets will move into the post-residential phase, which gives support through job-hunting, college admission and attendance, military service or other options open to the students.

"You have completed the resident phase only," said Maj. Gen. Errol R. Schwartz, Commanding General, D.C. National Guard. "You will receive 12 months of support and mentorship from this organization."

The students were given the option to participate in extracurricular activities to foster their education, discipline and job exploration. One popular club taught critical thinking skills through 3D design and modeling, using a 3D printer. Other options included yearbook, drama, student government, football, basketball and soccer.

"This program has given me the capabilities to be an outstanding leader." said Andrews, who also received the cadet Leadership Award and a $2,000 scholarship.

Now that the new D.C. facility is up and running, the program will host 2 classes a year at a capacity of 236 youth annually.