West Virginia National Guard program helps 58 high school students cross the graduation stage

KANAWHA COUNTY, WV (WOWK) – For many people, high school graduation isn’t something that even gets a second thought, but for at-risk youth, graduation is a step into a new life.

On Friday, the West Virginia National Guard’s Mountaineer Challenge Academy South held its eighth graduation ceremony. This group of students includes 58 cadets who completed the program.

“It’s when you’re really good. You’re really nice, you’re a very positive person. And I won the Robert C. Byrd Award for best cadet all around, and that’s just me doing the best I could. Best in physical training, education, and being kind,” says Tyler Baier, a graduate.

The program is 22 weeks long and teaches the students discipline and confidence building by focusing on new skills and community service. Some students earned awards because of their hard work and dedication.

The graduation ceremony featured some of the drills, ceremonies, and traditions they learned during those 22 weeks.

“Regardless of whether they obtain that high school diploma, one thing that they do obtain here is confidence. So, it gives them that ability to step out into the world and be ready,” says Debi Gipson, the deputy director.

Many of the graduates left graduation with big plans ahead, whether that was to continue with the path in the military, to continue their education through college, start in the workforce, or just spend time with friends and family.

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