Michigan Youth Challenge Academy Information Sessions Now Open for Next Class

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA) is hosting information sessions for interested youth and parents to learn more about enrolling in the academy’s next class, Cycle #53, to begin on July 13, 2025. Information sessions are a mandatory step in the application process and are listed on the MYCA events page. 

Information sessions are available in the following areas: Alpena, Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Benton Harbor, Cheboygan, Detroit, Escanaba, Flint, Grand Rapids, Grandville, Grayling, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Mount Pleasant, Muskegon, Pontiac, Saginaw, Sault Ste. Marie, Sturgis, Traverse City and Ypsilanti. 

At least one parent/guardian and applicant must be in attendance. The academy is encouraging youth and parents to begin the admissions process prior to attending an information session. For more information, contact Jayme Ham at 269-968-1397 or Joan Miller at 269-968-1368. 

The voluntary academy is a cost-free alternative education program which offers at-risk youth the opportunity to change their future. As part of the curriculum, cadets participate in drill and ceremony formations, meet physical fitness standards, perform community service and receive classroom instruction. Candidates for the academy are 15 1/2-18 years old and are at risk of not graduating high school. Because of the voluntary nature of the program, applicants cannot be mandated to attend by parents or the justice system and there is no requirement for military obligation. Graduates of the MYCA are eligible for the Michigan Job Challenge Program, an extension program of the MYCA, which teaches workplace essentials, provides opportunities to learn a skilled trade and assists with job placement.