_{New Mexico National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy}

A New Mexico National Guard Organization

About the New Mexico National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy

The New Mexico National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy (NMYCA), located in Roswell, is a structured, multi-phase program designed for youth ages 15½ to 18 who are looking for a new direction in life. The program begins with a highly structured 5½-month Residential Phase, followed by a 24-month Post-Residential Phase that ensures continued support and accountability.

Residential Phase

During this phase, cadets live in newly renovated military-style barracks and focus on personal growth through the 8 Core Components, which include:

Academic Excellence
Life Coping Skills
Job Skills
Physical Fitness
Leadership/Followership
Responsible Citizenship
Health & Hygiene
Service to Community

Cadets work toward earning their HiSET (high school equivalency credential) or recovering academic credits. They also have the opportunity to earn college credit through a vocational program offered in partnership with Eastern New Mexico University–Roswell.

Post-Residential Phase

Upon graduation from the Residential Phase, cadets enter the 24-month Post-Residential Phase, where they stay connected with an NMYCA Case Manager. This phase focuses on helping graduates stay on track with their education, employment, or career goals through regular monthly check-ins and ongoing guidance.

Why Choose NMYCA?

Tuition-free program
Voluntary participation
No military obligation
Supportive, goal-oriented environment
Not a boot camp—our focus is on education, life skills, structure, and mentorship

NMYCA is a proud program of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe initiative, helping young people transform their futures through discipline, opportunity, and support.

NMYCA Mission

Through training, discipline, and mentoring, the New Mexico National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy provides the education, leadership, character development and life coping skills to New Mexico's youth so they may become productive citizens.

NMYCA is a viable, community-oriented program and of New Mexico's finest Leadership Programs. We are committed to providing a safe environment for New Mexico's 15½-18 year old youth. Our goal is to provide our Cadets the education and the life skills necessary to become productive citizens with sustainable futures.

NMYCA Motto

"If it doesn't challeNGe you, it doesn't chaNGe you"

NMYCA is a second chance.
NMYCA is an opportunity to change.
NMYCA is a place to start your future.
NMYCA is alternative learning.
NMYCA is rewarding.
NMYCA is a life changing adventure.

NMYCA is NOT a place for "Bad Kids."
NMYCA is NOT a placement for adjudicated youth.
NMYCA is NOT a boot camp, detention or treatment facility
NMYCA is NOT enlistment into the military.
NMYCA is NOT a punishment.
NMYCA is NOT easy. It is called ChalleNGe for a reason.

Want to know more? Attend one of our NMYCA Virtual Orientations or Campus Tours. Get the opportunity to speak to an NMYCA Admissions Team member and get a run down of everything New Mexico National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy has to offer.

Orientations

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