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Top 40 Free Military Schools For Troubled Youths

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To better society and promote discipline in youths, free military schools for troubled youths are established, which shape the character of the youths to enviable heights and provide support for them.

This article brings to the fore, the top 40 free military schools for troubled youths in great detail.

First, we must appropriately know who a youth is. A youth is a young person in the stage of life between childhood and adulthood. This period is associated with physical and emotional development, educational enlightenment, personal adventures, as well as transition from dependence to independence.

As adolescents make their inevitable transition into adulthood, there is bound to be a handful of youths whose path may go through a myriad of troubled waters. It is therefore important that programs such as free military schools are set up to mitigate ill behavior from youthful exuberance. Thus, juvenile delinquency is nibbed in the bud, and the prevalence of crime rate is greatly reduced. 

Table of Contents

Who Constitutes as “Troubled Youths”

“Troubled youths” are often described as young persons who are experiencing certain challenges in their lives which can manifest in their behavioral, emotional, social, or academic conduct.

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, an estimated 10–20% of Canadian youth are affected by a mental illness or disorder while a Columbia University report states that 90% of Americans who meet the clinical criteria for addiction started using substances before the age of 18. To stop this menace, certain programs have been constituted. One of which is military schools.

Characteristics of “Troubled Youths”

Some factors that signify that a youth is “troubled” include:

  • Behavioral Problems: This can be in the form of defiance of instructions, unnecessary aggression, drug abuse, truancy, or involvement in other delinquent activities.
  • Emotional Issues: Troubled youths may exhibit signs of emotional instability, and experience depression, anxiety, anger issues, or other mental health concerns.
  • Drug Abuse: Involvement in drug abuse or addiction can significantly contribute to a youth’s troubles, which affects both their physical and mental health.
  • Traumatic or Adverse Experiences: Troubled youth display behaviors that indicate significant exposure to trauma, molestation, abuse, or negative life events that can have a lasting effect on them.
  • Other observations in the life of a troubled youth include family issues, academic struggles, negative peer influences, and a lack of support systems.

Understanding the root causes and providing appropriate resources can contribute to positive outcomes for these youths.

Relevance of Military Schools

Military schools are special educational institutions that incorporate military structure, discipline, and training into their academic curricula. Free military schools for troubled youths differ from military academies as the academies are often higher education institutions with a primary responsibility of training future military officers.

Aside from the fact that free military schools for troubled youths have little or no financial requirements to be enrolled, they serve the following purposes:

1. Discipline and Structure:

They provide a highly structured and disciplined environment that encourages law and order to be inculcated in the lives of the youths. This is very beneficial to troubled youths who may be struggling with the absence of an ordered or disciplined life.

2. Character Development:

These schools also focus on character development by emphasizing morals and values such as respect, self-confidence, integrity, and teamwork.

The objective is to assist troubled youths in building a solid moral foundation and developing positive attitudes toward authority and responsibility.

3. Academic Improvement

Many free military schools have a strong academic inclination. Troubled youths have the opportunity to benefit from this as there may be key features like smaller class sizes, individualized observation to attend to each person’s peculiarity, and a supportive learning environment, which will enable them to improve academically or develop their interest in vocational training.

4. Leadership Skills

Many of these schools aim to inculcate leadership skills in their students. This is through activities like exercises, response to instructions, and responsibilities to group work Troubled youths have the opportunity to develop leadership qualities and self-confidence to be functional members of society.

5. Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is one of the key components of military school programs. Daily exercises and physical training contribute to the student’s health and the self-discipline developed in them.

List of Best 40 Free Military Schools For Troubled Youths

Below is a list of the top 40 free military schools for troubled youths:

Top 40 Free Military Schools For Troubled Youths

free military schools for troubled youths

#1. California Military Institute

  • Location: Perris, California
  • Founded: 1950
  • Type: Public

The California Military Institute, situated in Perris, California, and catering to grades 5–12, is a publicly funded charter school with an enrollment of 1100 students.

A member of the Perris Union High School District, it is commonly referred to by its acronym, CMI. The school’s mascot pays homage to Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, and students are associated with the California Cadet Corps.

#2. Washington Youth ChalleNGe Academy

  • Location: Bremerton City, Washington State
  • Founded: 2009
  • Type: Public

The Washington Youth Academy is a quasi-military training and mentoring program for at-risk youth. The goal of the program is to give youth a second chance to become responsible and productive citizens by helping them improve their life skills, education levels, and employment potential.

The program incorporates a highly structured format, with an emphasis on student discipline and personal responsibility to provide a positive, safe, and secure learning environment.

#3. Oak Ridge Military Academy

  • Location: Guilford County, North Carolina
  • Founded: 1852
  • Type: Private

Oak Ridge Military Academy (ORMA) stands as one of the free military schools for troubled youths, geared towards college preparation in the northwestern region of Guilford County, North Carolina.

As the third oldest military academy in the United States, it holds the distinction of being the pioneer in admitting girls to military boarding schools. Situated in Oak Ridge, North Carolina, the academy is officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

Established in 1852 by community members with a shared commitment to promoting education in Guilford County, Oak Ridge endured a four-year closure during the Civil War and resumed operations in 1866.

From 1875 to 1914, the academic reins were held by J. Allen Holt and Martin Holt, both esteemed professors at the institution. Under their guidance, Oak Ridge ascended to become one of North Carolina’s premier schools. In 1914, leadership transitioned to Thomas E. Whittaker, coinciding with a devastating fire that razed several structures. Subsequently, in 1981, the school underwent a name change, becoming Oak Ridge Military Academy.

#4. Carver Military Academy

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Founded: 1947
  • Type: Public

George Washington Carver Military Academy, previously identified as George Washington Carver Area High School, is a publicly funded military high school with a four-year program.

Positioned in the Riverdale area on the far south side of Chicago, Illinois, United States, it has been in operation since 1947 under the administration of the Chicago Public Schools.

The academy takes its name from the distinguished African-American scientist and educator, George Washington Carver and serves as one of the top free military schools for troubled youths.

#5. Tarheel Challenge Academy

  • Location: Salemburg, North Carolina
  • Founded: 1994
  • Type: Public

Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy in North Carolina is a free military school for troubled youths program with a quasi-military approach designed to offer high school dropouts or those who have been expelled an opportunity to develop the discipline and life skills essential for becoming productive members of society.

The Tarheel ChalleNGe Academy operates as a voluntary program, open to recommendations and support from anyone willing to assist cadets. To undergo the training, applicants must willingly volunteer and demonstrate motivation and commitment to transforming their lives through this opportunity for a “second chance.”

It’s important to note that participating in the program incurs no expenses for the cadet or the cadet’s family, except for personal items such as toiletries.

#6. Wolf Creek Academy

  • Location: Mars Hill, North Carolina
  • Founded: 1990
  • Type: Private

Wolf Creek Academy offers therapy specifically for adolescents (13-17 years old) who are struggling with various behavioral issues.

The academy is designed to help students develop their emotional intelligence, as well as their physical strength and stamina.

Wolf Creek Academy’s educational program encompasses traditional subjects like mathematics and reading, but it places a significant emphasis on fostering social skills such as teamwork and conflict-resolution techniques.

The students are obligated to engage in organized activities, including art classes, where they not only learn to play musical instruments but also collaborate on projects alongside fellow students who share common interests.

#7. Utah Military Academy

  • Location: Riverdale, Utah
  • Founded: 2003
  • Type: Public

The Utah Military Academy, a Public Charter High School Military Academy, maintains two campuses in Salt Lake City, Utah—Hill Field in Ogden and Camp Williams in Lehi.

Both campuses are affiliated with formal USAF JROTC programs and collaborate extensively with the Civil Air Patrol and the Naval Sea Cadets. It is arguably, one of the best free military schools for troubled youths.

Apart from its military emphasis, UMA collaborates closely with external partners to offer diverse leadership opportunities. This involvement includes active participation in Boys and Girls States, an initiative hosted by the American Legion. UMA consistently sends over a dozen cadets to this program annually.

Furthermore, the Utah National Guard conducts a week-long seminar named Freedom Academy, specifically for the Senior Class Presidents from every high school in Utah. UMA consistently secures placements for five or six cadets in this exclusive program each year.

#8. Franklin Military Academy

  • Location: Richmond, Virginia
  • Founded: 1990
  • Type: Public

Franklin Military Academy is designated as one of the free military schools for troubled youths which is nestled in a mid-size city environment.

Catering to students in grades 6-12, the academy has a student population of 317. In the realm of academic performance, 37% of students at Franklin Military Academy achieved proficiency or higher in math, while a commendable 72% reached or exceeded that level in reading.

Diversity is a key characteristic of the school, with 94% of the student body representing minority groups. The student-teacher ratio, standing at 9:1, surpasses that of the district, contributing to a more favorable learning environment.

The gender distribution among students is 37% female and 63% male, and the school enrolls a significant 99% of economically disadvantaged students.

A dedicated faculty of 36 equivalent full-time teachers supports the educational endeavors at Franklin Military Academy.

#9. Sarasota Military Academy

  • Location: Sarasota, Florida
  • Founded: 2009
  • Type: Public

When you think of free military schools for troubled youths, you think of Sarasota Military Academy.

The academy is owned by the U.S. Department of Defense and offers students an opportunity to receive a high-quality education while earning an Associate Degree or Diploma from their local community college, or an Associate Degree and Postsecondary Certificate from the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus (USF).

Students are encouraged to join the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, which provides them with leadership training before they graduate and enter into active duty or reserve service. This can help them earn money while in school and apply for federal scholarships after graduation.

#10. Millars Military Academy

  • Location: Milledgeville, Georgia
  • Founded: 1998
  • Type: Public (All-male)

Millers Military Academy is a school tailored for boys, offering a cost-effective yet high-quality military education with a focus on nurturing leaders destined to be positive influences in their communities.

This Christian-based military institution is specifically designed as an all-boys Georgian military school, catering to international male students. Interestingly, despite its Christian orientation, Millers Military Academy warmly welcomes students from around the globe, regardless of their religious affiliations.

#11. Delaware Military Academy

  • Location: Wilmington, Delaware
  • Founded: 2003
  • Type: Public

Delaware Military Academy employs military principles as a foundation for imparting ethics, leadership, and responsibility. The institution holds accreditation from the Middle States Rated Superior Schools for the period spanning 2006 to 2018.

The academy maintains a non-discriminatory stance on all grounds and admits approximately 150 freshmen annually. The program spans four years, offering a comprehensive educational experience.

Emphasizing a holistic approach, the school actively encourages students to participate in both extra and co-curricular activities. Additionally, there is an open invitation for students to propose and initiate activities that are not currently offered. This collaborative approach aims to cater to diverse interests.

These events play a crucial role in providing students with a deeper understanding, fostering the enhancement of their social skills, and contributing to their overall development in various life domains.

#12. Pine Mountain Boys Academy

  • Location: Meansville, Georgia
  • Founded: N/A
  • Type: Private

Pine Mountain Boys Academy, situated in Meansville, GA, is a Christian Boarding School and Teen Challenge Adolescent program specifically tailored for boys aged 13-17.

It makes up our list of the top free military schools for troubled youths and serves as a Christian behavioral modification initiative catering to uniquely troubled teens facing a spectrum of challenges such as behavioral issues, anger, defiance, academic struggles, substance abuse, and technology overload. The anticipated duration of the program is 12-15 months.

Nestled on a private 36-acre campus, Pine Mountain Boys Academy provides a welcoming, home-like environment. Their approach is rooted in the nationally recognized Teen Challenge Emotional Growth curriculum.

Each student is matched with an on-site mentor, and the program is strategically crafted to instill leadership skills and foster an ‘others-centered’ mindset in boys grappling with behavioral difficulties.

Pine Mountain offers year-round open enrollment, accredited academics, personal mentoring, a well-structured daily routine, and comprehensive family support through workshops and visits.

#13. Admiral Farragut Academy

  • Location: St. Petersburg, Florida
  • Founded: 1933
  • Type: Private

Established in 1933, Admiral Farragut Academy is a private school with a focus on college preparation, catering to students from kindergarten to twelfth grade.

Positioned in St. Petersburg, Florida, within Pinellas County, the academy is situated amidst the neighborhoods of Treasure Island, Gulfport, Pasadena, Tierra Verde, and Seminole.

Additionally, Farragut extends its educational services to North Pinellas County, encompassing Clearwater, Belleair, and Palm Harbor.

The student body at the school comprises around 500 students spanning from kindergarten to 12th grade, with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. In the Upper School, which enrolls 330 students, approximately half of them opt for boarding arrangements.

#14. Phoenix STEM Military Academy

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Founded: 2004
  • Type: Public

Phoenix STEM Military Academy, recognized as the premier public school in Chicago, is probably one of the top free military schools for troubled youths which is dedicated to nurturing cadets while also cultivating leaders with exceptional character and aspirations for success in higher education.

The academy actively engages in building partnerships with various schools and communities, fostering connections among its 500-plus students and those from other educational institutions.

The program at Phoenix STEM Military Academy spans four years.

Adorning the colors black and red, the academy is committed to continuous improvement. Through a comprehensive survey, input from the school community, parents, and stakeholders serves as a valuable foundation for addressing weaknesses and celebrating strengths, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience.

#15. Eckerd Academy of The Blue Ridge

  • Location: Suches, Georgia
  • Founded: 1996
  • Type: Public

Following on our roster of cost-effective Georgian military schools is Eckerd Academy, founded in 1996. Notably, Eckerd Academy doubles as a therapeutic school with a specific emphasis on assisting students grappling with low self-esteem, and drug and alcohol abuse. It holds the distinction of being a registered outdoor therapeutic school.

Geared toward students aged 10 to 17, Eckerd Academy is tailored to address the needs of those facing educational disadvantages and challenges in two or more academic subjects.

In terms of accreditation and affiliation, this Georgian military school is linked with both the Georgia Department of Education and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

#16. Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy

  • Location: Hattiesburg, Mississippi
  • Founded: 1994
  • Type: Public

The Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy, established in 1994, is a transformative youth academy that is designed to provide a structured and disciplined environment for troubled youths.

This academy serves as a crucial intervention for adolescents who may be struggling with various issues such as academic performance, discipline issues, or other obstacles hindering their personal and educational growth.

The overarching goal of the Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy is to empower cadets with the necessary tools and skills to overcome obstacles and achieve success in their lives.

#17. Kenosha Military Academy

  • Location: Kenosha, Wisconsin
  • Founded: 1995
  • Type: Public

The Kenosha Military Academy places a strong emphasis on the holistic well-being of its students, embodying the principle of “a healthy mind in a healthy body,” which contributes to their outstanding performance in athletics. The school is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and embracing diversity among its cadets.

With an enrollment exceeding 900 students spanning grades 9-12, the Kenosha Military Academy is dedicated to preparing its cadets for future success by instilling a sense of discipline. This disciplined approach serves as a valuable asset in their college endeavors and professional careers.

Every student enrolled at this institution is allowed to participate in the Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (JROTC) training. This training program imparts essential qualities such as leadership skills, teamwork, physical fitness, and a strong sense of citizenship.

#18. Hargrave Military Academy

  • Location: Chatham, Virginia
  • Founded: 1909
  • Type: Private (All-male)

Hargrave Military Academy (HMA) is a privately run all-male, military boarding school nestled in Chatham, Virginia. Affiliated with the Baptist General Association of Virginia, the academy places a strong emphasis on Christian values and centers its curriculum around both college preparation and military training.

Catering to young men from various corners of the globe, Hargrave accommodates students from grade 7 through post-graduate (PG). Recognized as a National School of Character in 2016, the academy holds accreditation from the Virginia Association of Independent Schools and AdvancEd at the national level.

It is an active member of the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States and the National Association of Independent Schools. Notably, Hargrave’s campus is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

#19. New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy

  • Location: Sea Girt, New Jersey
  • Founded: 1993
  • Type: Public

The primary goal of the New Jersey Youth ChalleNGe Academy is to instruct and guide disconnected teenagers, fostering their development into responsible and productive members of their community, state, and nation.

This mission is pursued through a distinctive 22-week residential program characterized by a disciplined environment that blends quasi-military training, inventive academic opportunities, and chances for the enhancement of their physical, social, and intellectual capacities.

Following graduation, participants, in collaboration with a mentor, continue to receive guidance and support throughout the subsequent one-year post-residential phase.

#20. Miller’s Military Academy

  • Location: Redan, Georgia
  • Founded: 1998
  • Type: Public (All-male)

Miller’s Military Academy offers a platform for young men to nurture and enhance their leadership abilities. These young men play pivotal roles as inspirations for both their peers and the wider community, all while benefiting from a high-quality education within a positive and supportive environment.

Thus, this academy ranks as one of the free military schools for troubled youths.

Functioning as an all-boys institution, Miller’s Military Academy serves as a transformative opportunity for young men, fostering personal growth and, in certain instances, reigniting hope in their lives.

Additionally, the academy provides a valuable experience for these individuals to encounter positive male role models. While boarding space is available, it is limited and reserved for a select number of cadets.

#21. Texas Military Institute

  • Location: San Antonio, Texas
  • Founded: 1983
  • Type: Private

TMI Episcopal, situated in San Antonio, is a private school with a rich history. Formerly recognized as Texas Military Institute, TMI is a discerning coeducational Episcopal college preparatory institution that upholds a military tradition.

Welcoming both boarding and day students, it serves as the flagship and exclusive secondary school under the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas. As the oldest Episcopal college preparatory school in the American Southwest, TMI traces its roots back to its founding as the West Texas School for Boys.

Over the years, it underwent name changes, such as West Texas Military Academy, and earned the colloquial moniker ‘West Point on the Rio Grande,’ despite its location being several hours away from the Rio Grande itself.

#22. Gateway Academy for Boys

  • Location: Bonifay, Florida
  • Founded: 2011
  • Type: Private (All-male)

This academy catered to students aged 12 and older and was founded by Captain Bryan Pugh, a Florida native. Captain Pugh’s vision is to create a military school that offers students the necessary education for success beyond high school.

The academy is dedicated to providing students with an education geared towards college preparation.

Gateway Academy for Boys aims to guide students in their development into capable young adults, ensuring their ability to succeed in life after high school, whether they choose to pursue higher education or not.

#23. Fort Stewart Youth Challenge Academy

  • Location: Augusta, Georgia
  • Founded: 1993
  • Type: Public

Fort Stewart Youth Challenge Academy, situated in Georgia, is a tuition-free military school providing tutoring and mentoring services specifically designed for troubled youth.

The primary objective of this academy is to guide these students toward successful high school completion, college graduation, and eventual employment.

With a history spanning over 50 years, the program has successfully assisted over 4,000 students in overcoming the challenges of their pasts. Students enrolled in the program hail from various parts of the country, with a significant number originating from foster care, juvenile detention centers, or other challenging circumstances.

#24. Grizzly Youth Academy

  • Location: San Luis Obispo, California
  • Founded: 1998
  • Type: Public

The academy is dedicated to intervening in and reclaiming the lives of 16-18-year-old students at risk of dropping out. The program aims to equip graduates with essential values, life skills, education, and self-discipline, empowering them to thrive as productive citizens.

Grizzly Youth Academy (GYA) represents a collaboration between the California National Guard and the Grizzly Challenge Charter School. Geared towards youth aged 16 to 18 who have either dropped out of high school or are at risk of doing so, the program provides a highly structured environment.

It focuses on fostering leadership, cooperation, and academic skills while simultaneously nurturing self-esteem, pride, and confidence.

#25. La Sierra Military Academy

  • Location: Visalia, California
  • Founded: 2000
  • Type: Public

La Sierra Junior Military Academy, situated in Visalia, California, is a public school under the jurisdiction of the Tulare County Office of Education.

Catering to students in grades 7 through 12, the academy serves a student body of 220.

Notably, the institution’s educators have successfully secured funding for at least one project through DonorsChoose.

#26. North Valley Military Institute

  • Location: Los Angeles, California
  • Founded: 1924
  • Type: Private

Established in 1924, the North Valley Military Institute (NVMI) is a California-based military school with a long history. Initially designed for troubled adolescents, it has gained recognition for effectively guiding students with behavioral and academic challenges toward responsible citizenship.

As a tuition-free private military school, NVMI offers a variety of courses tailored for disturbed youth. These classes cover topics ranging from firearm safety to the history of the army.

#27. Virginia Military Academy

  • Location: Lexington, Virginia
  • Founded: 1839
  • Type: Public

The Virginia Military Institute, hosting a student body of over 1,600, distinguishes itself as a senior military school where cadets’ lives extend beyond a well-structured academic curriculum. The focus is not only on education but also on fostering a positive and noteworthy transformation in each student’s character.

It attracts students seeking an undergraduate experience that goes beyond the ordinary offerings of typical colleges and universities. The institute instills in its cadets a mindset of not settling for mediocrity when they can strive to be the best.

Throughout its history, the Virginia Military Institute has consistently produced exemplary citizens and leaders who serve as role models in society. Annually, more than 50% of their graduates are commissioned into various branches of the armed forces, contributing to a legacy of service.

#28. Chicago Military Academy

  • Location: Chicago, Illinois
  • Founded: 1999
  • Type: Public

Emphasizing accomplishment and personal accountability, the mission of Chicago Military Academy revolves around cultivating well-rounded, capable leaders.

In collaboration with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), this institution enables its cadets to pursue courses at both high school and college levels without incurring any costs.

#29. Sunburst Youth Academy

  • Location: Los Alamitos, California
  • Founded: 2008
  • Type: Public

The Sunburst Youth Academy is Southern California’s premier residential leadership academy for teens.

This free program will help you develop the self-confidence, discipline, life skills, and education necessary to become successful and fulfill the potential you have within yourself.

#30. San Marcos Academy

  • Location: San Marcos, Texas
  • Founded: 1909
  • Type: Private

San Marcos Academy, also known as SMA or San Marcos Baptist Academy (SMBA), is a private Christian school with a coeducational and college preparatory focus.

Affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, it holds accreditation from both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Texas Association of Boarding Schools.

Established in 1907, the academy’s mission centers on educating young individuals in a nurturing community grounded in Christian values.

The academy caters to boarding students in grades 6–12 and day students in grades K-12, with a total enrollment of 274 in 2009, of which approximately 75% participated in the residence program.

#31. Riverside Military Academy

  • Location: Gainesville, Georgia
  • Founded: 1907
  • Type: Private (All-male)

Riverside Military Academy, situated in Georgia, extends free tuition to troubled youth. This all-male boarding school follows a structured schedule with classes held from 8 am to 5 pm every Monday through Friday.

The curriculum at Riverside encompasses a range of subjects, covering math and science, history and government, English language arts, as well as physical education and athletics. An integral part of the academic program involves students dedicating hours to community service each week.

#32. Summerlin Academy

  • Location: Bartow, Florida
  • Founded: 2016
  • Type: Public

Summerlin Academy, located in Florida, is a military school that welcomes students expelled from other military institutions or schools. Established in 2016, the academy boasts a network of over 30 locations across the state.

Its inception traces back to an Army veteran with the vision of providing a haven for troubled youth susceptible to negative influences such as gangs.

The academic programs at Summerlin Academy span either six or eight months, incorporating tutoring and counseling sessions. Beyond academics, the school provides opportunities for students to engage in sports like basketball and soccer.

Additionally, students have the chance to contribute to community service projects, fostering character development and promoting their overall betterment.

#33. Marion Military Institute 

  • Location: Marion, Alabama
  • Founded: 1842
  • Type: Public

Marion Military Institute, recognized as the Military College of Alabama and referred to by various names such as MMI, Marion Institute, Marion Military, or simply Marion, is a public military junior college situated in Marion, Alabama.

Established in 1842, it holds the distinction of being both the official state military college of Alabama and the oldest military junior college in the United States.

#34. Marine Military Academy

  • Location: Harlingen, Texas
  • Founded: 1965
  • Type: Private

The Marine Military Academy is a private institution dedicated to preparing boys in grades 7–12, along with one year of post-graduate study, through a college preparatory curriculum.

Established in 1965, the academy draws inspiration for its traditions and ideals from the United States Marine Corps (USMC).

It’s worth noting that while the academy’s Junior ROTC program is affiliated with the USMC, the school as a whole is not formally connected with the Marine Corps.

#35. Wisconsin Challenge Academy

  • Location: Fort McCoy, Wisconsin
  • Founded: 1998
  • Type: Public

The Wisconsin Challenge Academy serves as an alternative education initiative strategically crafted to transform the futures of at-risk youth, guiding them toward adulthood equipped with values, skills, education, and self-discipline.

As a component of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, the Academy operates within a community-based framework, taking on the responsibility of leading, training, and mentoring 16-18-year-olds. The overarching goal is to mold them into productive citizens poised to contribute to America’s future.

#36. New Mexico Youth Challenge Academy

  • Location: Roswell, New Mexico
  • Founded: 2001
  • Type: Public

This academy stands as one of the best free military schools for troubled youths which offers a residential quasi-military training experience and places a strong emphasis on fostering holistic development by focusing on education and job skills training.

After completing the program, mentors will continue to support cadets, helping them stay dedicated to their accomplishments and life objectives.

#37. Michigan Youth Challenge Academy 

  • Location: Battle Creek, Michigan
  • Founded: 1999
  • Type: Public

Since its establishment in 1999, the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy has played a crucial role in guiding numerous “at-promise” young adults toward realizing their full potential.

Catering to at-risk individuals aged 15 1/2 through 18, the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy provides a unique opportunity for them to graduate high school and undergo significant positive transformations.

This involves a rigorous five-and-a-half-month residential program followed by a 12-month post-residential phase. Beyond academics, the program focuses on fostering skills in leadership, followership, job skills, physical fitness, life coping skills, community service, and more, all within a military-like and structured environment designed to minimize distractions.

#38. Texas Challenge Academy 

  • Location: Eagle Lake, Texas
  • Founded: 1994
  • Type: Public

Texas ChalleNGe Academy offers a 5 1/2-month residential academy sponsored by the Texas National Guard.

They are a tuition-free educational program for 16 to 18-year-old teens who are disengaged in school and offer academic instruction and provide structure, and discipline to help our cadets develop personal accountability and become successful adults.

#39. Colorado Military Academy

  • Location: Bremerton City, Washington State
  • Founded: 2009
  • Type: Public

Colorado Military Academy (CMA) is a tuition-free public charter school catering to grades K-12.

CMA provides a well-organized learning setting that fosters academic achievement, self-discipline, responsibility, and community engagement, with the backing of peers, instructors, and mentors.

The academy is dedicated to cultivating leadership skills in every Cadet.

#40. Benedictine Military School

  • Location: Augusta, Georgia
  • Founded: 1902
  • Type: Private (All-male)

Benedictine Military School is a private, all-male, Catholic college preparatory day school that forms and educates boys in grades 9-12 from diverse backgrounds, supports a deeper commitment to their faith, prepares them for life through a quality academic program, and instills leadership skills through a JROTC program, athletics, extra-curricular activities, and community service.

Through instruction and discipline, we seek to form men of virtue and integrity who are prepared for life-long learning and service to their faith and civic communities.

READ ALSO: 15 Low-Cost Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens & Youth

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Consider Free Military Schools for Troubled Youths?

Enrolling in a free military school for troubled youths has many advantages such as discipline, character development, academic improvement, leadership skills, and physical fitness which when inculcated in the life of the youths will shape and enable them become productive members of society.

2. What distinguishes military schools from other educational options for troubled youths?

Exploring the unique features offered by free military schools for troubled youths helps individuals assess if the features aligns with their preferences and objectives. Take, for instance, leadership skills that may not be instilled by other educational options.

3. How does the military environment contribute to personal growth and character development?

The military environment does contribute to the character development of troubled youths as they are intended to foster positive personal development. Understanding this can help parents and guardians gauge the potential impact on character and behavior.

Conclusion

Military schools act as one of the means of handling the situation of troubled youths in society. When they are made tuition-free, it ensures that there are no financial burdens on parents or guardians of such youths.

Free military schools for troubled youths instill discipline, and best-of-character leadership skills, improve academic performance, and promote the physical fitness of students.

The curricula of these schools promote the personal development of the youths which impacts positively on their character and overall behaviour in society.

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