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MPS schools and district offices are closed until further notice. Get the latest updates and resources on our MPS COVID-19 Updates page.

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Wisconsin Challenge Academy

The Wisconsin Challenge Academy is an opportunity for male and female students ages 16 years 9 months to 18 years to attend a 5-1/2 month residency at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. Students accepted for the program work on soft skills and high school equivalency diploma tests.This program is free! Sessions begin each January and July.

Graduates of the program return to MPS to continue their education toward receiving a high school diploma.

To be eligible for the program, students must

  • be a year behind in credits earned,
  • have a mentor (non-family member) to support them during and after their participation in the academy,
  • volunteer to participate, and
  • return to MPS to complete credits and graduate.

School visits are conducted twice a year by the Wisconsin Challenge Academy staff to promote and recruit participants. Parents are welcome to attend these sessions.

Questions about the program and application process can be directed to elo@milwaukee.k12.wi.us.

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  What is the focus while at the Wisconsin Challenge Academy?

The focus is on eight core areas:

  • Academic excellence
  • Physical fitness
  • Leadership
  • Health and hygiene
  • Life-coping skills
  • Responsible citizenship
  • Service to community
  • Job skills

 

  Who is eligible to attend the Wisconsin Challenge Academy?
  • Male and female students who are 16 years 9 months old (at time of entry)
  • One or more years behind in high school credits, expelled, or dropped out
  • A citizen or legal resident of the United States and a Wisconsin resident
  • Not currently on parole or probation (other than juvenile status offenses)
  • Drug-free (upon entry to the program)
  • Willing participants
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