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County recognizes Discovery Challenge Academy; superintendent, Guard highlight program outcomes
Summary
San Joaquin County presented a recognition to the Discovery Challenge Academy, a 22‑week residential partnership between the county office of education and the California National Guard, citing high graduation and post‑program success rates for at‑risk students.
The Board of Supervisors presented a recognition Feb. 11 to the Discovery Challenge Academy (DCA), a 22‑week residential program run in partnership with the San Joaquin County Office of Education and the California National Guard for 16‑ to 18‑year‑old students at risk of dropping out. County and education officials described DCA as a preventive program designed to restore structure and academic progress for students who otherwise may not graduate.
San Joaquin County Superintendent of Schools (name on transcript: Dr. Troy Brown) said DCA is “life changing” and cited program outcomes: since inception eight years ago, about 1,576 cadets have completed the program; the average GPA on entry was about 1.39 and the reported average GPA after completion rose to about 3.45. Superintendent Brown said the program currently has approximately 101 cadets in class 17. A DCA graduate told the board he entered DCA with a 1.4 GPA and, after graduating, raised his GPA substantially and expected to graduate from high school in May.
Speakers, including Lt. Col. Christopher Ellison of the California National Guard and local law-enforcement and education leaders, urged the board and community to visit graduations and consider mentorship. The board thanked program staff and encouraged continued local support for initiatives that provide second‑chance opportunities for youth.
