Located in Lathrop, Calif., Discovery Challenge Academy (DCA) offers a second chance for High School students. This is a non-profitable program for teenagers who are willing to graduate high school but do not meet the requirements or cannot make up in an abbreviated time.
Through military and 22 week-long academic training, students can achieve their goals and learn valuable knowledge for their future. After finishing the program, students may return to their high school to finally earn their diplomas or earn their diplomas while being enrolled.
Former student Jade Barrios said the academy helped develop lasting values.
“I learned a lot of things but the most important was discipline and resilience,” Barrios said. “Those are values that I will never regret acquiring, all thanks to the DCA.”
Students have the chance to travel through California as well.
“We went to Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, different festivals and Sacramento,” Barrios said.
Past student Itzel Garcia said the academy changed her life.
“It changed me to be healthier, and I felt a lot more energized,” Garcia continued. “My cadre always gave me life-changing advice on things I wasn’t able to talk with my parents. It made me feel better so I would say they changed my life for real.”
DCA offers community service hours and scholarships. Students from all walks of life will meet here, providing the chance to build friendships and gain experience.
“The only way I was really able to balance school and military training was the amount of support I was given and the lack of distraction,” Carolyna Steven, a former student of DCA, said. “I had an hour of silence to get me through homework and understanding teachers who were able to thoroughly explain what was going on instead of leaving me scared to ask or not able to learn.”
After completing the 22-week training, students are monitored for two years to ensure they stay on track. Mentors help them with employment, academics, family situations and other needs.
“DCA really showed me that I deserve the kind of life I want and that I have to work towards it in order to accomplish it,” Steven admitted.
Barrios also added that the bonds created with the fellow cadets were unforgettable.
“The bond I created with other cadets was as strong as a family one, living together for nearly five months was such an amazing experience I will never forget,” Barrios concluded. “We were there for each other showing support and love all the time.”
Intended to succor high schoolers who desire to change their life in a positive way, this academy makes sure every student reaches that goal. DCA gives students the opportunity to graduate high school and have an extracurricular activity, which will help them when applying for a job or a college.
