Take the WYA ChalleNGe! See links below for more information and application
The Washington Youth Academy is an academic intervention for students 15.5-18, who are behind in credit, dropped out of high school or at-risk of dropping out. The goal of the program is to give youth a second chance at graduating with their class and become responsible and productive citizens by helping them improve their life skills, education levels, and employment potential.
The program incorporates a highly-structured, quasi-military format, with an emphasis on student discipline, personal responsibility, in a positive, safe, and secure learning environment. Program graduates can recover up to 8.0 credits. The goal is to return to the home high school and graduate on-time with their peers.
The WYA program includes a 22-week intensive residential phase and a 52-week (one year) post-residential phase where the youth receives mentoring and placement follow-up back at home. A class cycle is 154 days, including up to 7 days for home pass. Program activities include academics, service to community, leadership, mentoring and personal development. A number of small unit training and educational enhancement activities supplement the program including an additional 7th period in the academic program to assist individuals in need of extra assistance and limited special education services.
For selection into the program, the applicant must complete an application and meet the following criteria:
- 16-18 years old
- High school dropout or at risk of dropping out due to credit defiency
- Must volunteer. Cannot be forced or court-ordered to attend
- Must be US or legal resident & WA resident
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Free of felony charges and no pending court proceedings
- Willing to be free from use of illegal drugs or substances while enrolled in the program
- Physically and mentally capable to participate in the program with reasonable accomodation for physical and other disabilities.
Youth should apply early for the greatest opportunity for admissions. Main website is located at: Washington Youth Academy
Introducing our New Web-Based Application
https://stofwadeptofenterpriseservices.formstack.com/forms/washington_youth_academy_application
The new web-based application can be filled out on a phone, tablet, or computer. The new “How to Apply” page has easy step by step instructions for youth and families to submit an application. The Academy will no longer have a paper application.
Introducing our New Information Sessions –via zoom
https://stofwadeptofenterpriseservices.formstack.com/forms/wya_information_session_sign_up
We will be offering Information Sessions via Zoom for anyone interested in learning more about the Academy. We can also do Zoom sessions with you and your students at any time.
Introducing our New Virtual Open House
https://mil.wa.gov/youth-academy-open-houses
Anyone interested in learning more about the Academy can watch this voice-over PowerPoint presentation on-demand.