What is KSCA?
The Keystone State Challenge Academy (KSCA) is a free, voluntary program that helps teens get back on track academically and personally. Through a structured, supportive environment, cadets build discipline, leadership, and life skills while working toward High School credit acquisition or a GED.
Where is the KSCA located and can I visit the campus?
The Academy is located at Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003. Because we are located on a military installation, visitation is by invitation ONLY. Please do not just drop by.
Is this a military program?
No. While KSCA uses a structured, military-style environment, it is not military training and does not require enlistment.
How long is the program?
KSCA includes two phases:
- Residential Phase (22 weeks): Cadets live on campus and follow a structured schedule
- Post-Residential Phase (24 months): Cadets return home and continue working with an all-in-one mentoring software platform called MentorPro. Cadets continue to receive assistance with career planning, job opportunities, higher education, or other pathways.
What is the cost to attend Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy?
$0 - There is no tuition cost for attending this program. The Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy, as part of the National Guard Youth Challenge Program, is operated through a Cooperative Agreement between the National Guard Bureau and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This means it is funded by federal and state dollars making tuition absolutely free to eligible youth.
What is the basic curriculum?
Cadets participate in 8 Core Components:
- Academic Excellence (GED or credit acquisition)
- Physical Fitness
- Leadership and Followership
- Life Coping Skills
- Service to Community
- Job Skills
- Responsible Citizenship
- Health and Hygiene
Do Cadets attend school?
Yes. Cadets will attend academic classes Monday through Friday facilitated by PA State certified teachers contracted by the Capital Area Intermediate Unit (CAIU15). Classes cover all core subjects (Science, Math, Social Studies, Language Arts) with support for IEP and 504 Plan students from our Special Education teacher.
What are the educational options for Cadets while attending the Academy?
Credit Recovery/Credit Acquisition – Goal is to complete the program and return to their “home” school.
- Student remains enrolled in “home” school/district while attending KSCA
- Progress reports and transcript sent to “home” school to track progress and award credit upon return
- Courses taught in core subject areas of math, science, social studies, language arts, reading and writing
- A strong partnership is developed between the sending school and the Academy
General Education Development Test (GED) – Goal is to pass all tested subjects to earn GED.
- Cadet must be 18 (17 in limited cases)
- Courses prepare Cadet to attempt the GED in the following:
- General Math
- General English
- General Science
- General Social Studies
- Must pass all 4 tested subjects to earn GED
- GED completion is not a requirement for graduation from KSCA, nor is there any guarantee that your child will receive his/her GED while at KSCA.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be 15.5 –18 years old
- Be a United States citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Be a high school dropout or at risk of not graduating
- Be physically and mentally able to participate
- Be free of serious legal issues
- Be willing to be free from the use of illegal drugs or substances while enrolled
How do I apply?
You can apply online through the official KSCA application portal. The process includes submitting forms, providing documentation, and participating in a mandatory Orientation. Orientation occurs on campus and requires both the applicant and parent/legal guardian. You will be given a lot of information to assist you in deciding whether you are truly committed to attending and completing the program. You will receive a briefing about the program and what to expect, your photograph and uniform measurements will be obtained, you will take a tour of the KSCA campus, and participate in acclimation assessments and a personal interview.
Can I enroll and force my child to attend the KSCA?
No. The KSCA is a voluntary program. Applicants must be willing to participate in the KSCA. Parents cannot force attendance. Courts do not order applicants to attend the KSCA.
Can I contact enrolled Cadets at the KSCA?
Yes! You can contact enrolled Cadets at KSCA through two ways: the U.S. Postal Service and email. Cadets can ONLY contact you through the U.S. Postal Service and a weekly phone call.
Mailing Address:
Cadet’s Name (Last Name, First Initial)
c/o Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy
Building 7-06, Broad Street
Fort Indiantown Gap
Annvile, PA 17003-5002
You can email, too! But remember they won’t be able to reply via email.
Email address: Cadets@pachallenge.com
Place Cadet’s First and Last name in the Subject line. Staff will print out the email you send and distribute it with the mail the following day. Your Cadet will NOT reply by email. They can ONLY use the postal service. These messages are NOT PRIVATE and are subject to staff review.
Can I visit my child while enrolled in the KSCA?
NO. However, there are two scheduled weekend home passes. The KSCA counseling department also facilitates a Family Day for families to visit their Cadets on campus.
Have more questions?
Contact the Keystone State Challenge Academy’s Admissions Office for additional support.