 The program is run by the National Guard, and at-risk students in
the age range of 16 to 18 can participate. These students go through
a 17-month program, with five months being spent in Rantoul, which
involves military-style physical training and classroom experience,
and 12 months of mentoring afterwards. There is no obligation to
join the National Guard after the program ends.Schumacher said
the National Guard is looking to bring in young people from Logan
County, and they are still accepting applicants for the next
starting date, in mid-July, or the following start date, in January
of 2014.
"Any time you can keep those kids out of that vein, we're really
promoting a good society," said Terry Carlton.
Pat O'Neill and Kevin Bateman agreed that the program is a great
asset, and both spoke on personal experiences with the program.
"The judges take this very seriously, and it's a very good
program. … As long as the state's attorney is willing to look at it
as a viable option for the kids that come through his office -- and
there's other ways kids can petition to go -- it's a great program.
It gives kids a chance to change their life," said Bateman.
David Hepler added that, statistically, 90 percent of the
students who graduate from the program are either in college, in the
military or working a year after graduation.
[to top of second column] |
Schumacher provided some additional information on the Lincoln's
Challenge Academy:
Those who participate in the program can receive a GED while also
learning life skills and computer skills. Other opportunities
include a chance to win renewable scholarships and to take the ACT
and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.
There is no cost to students to enter the program, though the
purchase of running shoes and personal hygiene products is their own
responsibility. Other necessities are provided by the program.
For juveniles who have a record in the court system, there are a
few guidelines. The applicant cannot be on parole or probation for
any adult charges, and the program cannot be forced on them as part
of their legal consequences; they must volunteer of their own
accord. Applicants cannot be awaiting a sentence or be under
indictment. Those who have two or more offenses have to submit a
waiver.
Graduates may become eligible for financial assistance in the
form of a graduation stipend.
Those who want more information or want to volunteer for the
program can contact Terry Rasor, the regional coordinator, at the
National Guard Armory in Decatur.
___
Lincoln's Challenge Academy:
http://www.lincolnschallengeacademy.org/
[By DEREK HURLEY]
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