Summer military camps texas. Summer Military Camps in Texas: Exploring Options for Troubled Teens

What are the best summer military camps in Texas for troubled teens. How do military schools differ from therapeutic boarding schools. Are boot camps effective for addressing behavioral issues in teenagers. What alternatives exist for parents seeking help for at-risk youth in Texas.

Understanding Military Schools and Boot Camps in Texas

When parents in Texas find themselves at their wits’ end with a troubled teenager, they often turn to military schools or boot camps as a potential solution. However, it’s crucial to understand that these institutions may not always be the best fit for addressing the complex emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs of at-risk youth.

Military schools in Texas, such as the Marine Military Academy and Texas Military Institute, primarily focus on preparing students for military careers rather than providing intensive therapeutic interventions. While they offer structure and discipline, they may lack the specialized support required for teens dealing with serious behavioral issues or mental health concerns.

Key Characteristics of Military Schools:

• Emphasis on military-style discipline and structure
• Focus on physical fitness and academic excellence
• Limited therapeutic components
• Preparation for potential military careers

Boot camps, on the other hand, are short-term programs that employ a militaristic approach to behavior modification. While they may seem like a quick fix, research suggests that their effectiveness in addressing underlying issues is limited.

The Limitations of Military-Style Approaches for Troubled Teens

Why might military schools and boot camps fall short in helping troubled teens? The answer lies in their approach, which often prioritizes discipline over addressing the root causes of behavioral problems. Many at-risk youth struggle with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or substance abuse that require specialized therapeutic interventions.

Do military-style programs provide long-term solutions for troubled teens? Unfortunately, the evidence suggests otherwise. While these programs may instill discipline temporarily, they often fail to equip teens with the coping skills and emotional tools needed for lasting change.

Potential Drawbacks of Military-Style Programs:

1. Lack of individualized therapeutic support
2. Overemphasis on punishment rather than rehabilitation
3. Potential exacerbation of existing mental health issues
4. Limited focus on underlying emotional or psychological problems

Therapeutic Alternatives for At-Risk Youth in Texas

For parents seeking more comprehensive support for their troubled teens, therapeutic boarding schools and residential treatment centers offer promising alternatives. These programs combine academic instruction with intensive therapy and counseling to address the complex needs of at-risk youth.

How do therapeutic boarding schools differ from military schools? The primary distinction lies in their focus on healing and personal growth. Therapeutic boarding schools employ licensed therapists, counselors, and educators who work collaboratively to help teens overcome their challenges and develop essential life skills.

Key Features of Therapeutic Boarding Schools:

• Individualized treatment plans
• Evidence-based therapeutic interventions
• Academic support and credit recovery
• Family therapy and parent involvement
• Life skills training and character development

In Texas, programs like Resolution Ranch and Texas Challenge Academy offer therapeutic approaches that may be more suitable for teens struggling with serious behavioral or emotional issues.

Navigating Texas Regulations for Teen Help Programs

Parents considering residential programs for their troubled teens should be aware of the regulatory landscape in Texas. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services oversees the licensing and regulation of facilities that house children, including many teen help programs.

Are all schools in Texas subject to the same regulations? Interestingly, private schools in Texas are not required to be accredited or licensed, and teachers at these institutions do not need certification unless the school voluntarily seeks accreditation. However, all students must submit immunization records, and employees must undergo criminal history checks.

Important Regulatory Considerations:

• State licensing requirements for residential facilities
• Immunization record submission for all students
• Mandatory criminal background checks for employees
• Voluntary accreditation options for private schools

Understanding these regulations can help parents make informed decisions when selecting a program for their troubled teen.

Assessing Your Teen’s Specific Needs

Before deciding on a particular program, it’s crucial to assess your teen’s specific needs and challenges. Common issues faced by troubled teens include anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, and oppositional defiant disorder.

How can parents determine the most appropriate intervention for their teen? A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional can provide valuable insights into the underlying causes of your teen’s behavior and guide you towards the most suitable treatment options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Program:

• Your teen’s specific emotional and behavioral challenges
• The program’s therapeutic approach and evidence-based practices
• Academic support and credit recovery options
• Family involvement and aftercare planning
• Staff qualifications and experience

By carefully considering these factors, parents can make more informed decisions about the best course of action for their troubled teen.

The Importance of Long-Term Support and Aftercare

When evaluating summer military camps or other residential programs in Texas, it’s essential to consider the long-term impact on your teen’s well-being. Programs that offer comprehensive aftercare planning and ongoing support tend to yield better outcomes for troubled youth.

What elements should be included in an effective aftercare plan? A robust aftercare program typically includes continued therapy, academic support, family counseling, and strategies for reintegrating into the home and community environments.

Key Components of Effective Aftercare:

• Ongoing individual and family therapy
• Academic and career planning assistance
• Relapse prevention strategies
• Community support groups and resources
• Regular check-ins and progress monitoring

By prioritizing programs that offer comprehensive aftercare, parents can help ensure that the progress made during treatment is sustained long after the program ends.

Seeking Professional Guidance and Support

Navigating the complex landscape of teen help programs can be overwhelming for parents. Organizations like Help Your Teen Now offer valuable resources and guidance to families seeking support for their troubled teens.

How can parents access unbiased information about available programs? Help Your Teen Now provides free consultations and connects parents with a wealth of information gathered from families across the country who have experienced various teen help programs firsthand.

Benefits of Seeking Professional Guidance:

• Access to unbiased, comprehensive program information
• Personalized recommendations based on your teen’s needs
• Insights into program success rates and outcomes
• Support in navigating the selection and enrollment process
• Connections to other families who have faced similar challenges

By leveraging these resources, parents can make more informed decisions and find the most appropriate support for their troubled teen.

Alternative Approaches to Teen Intervention

While residential programs like summer military camps and therapeutic boarding schools can be effective for some teens, it’s worth exploring alternative interventions that may be less disruptive to your family life. These approaches can be particularly beneficial for teens with less severe behavioral issues or those who may not require 24/7 supervision.

What are some effective alternatives to residential programs? Outpatient therapy, intensive day treatment programs, and wilderness therapy are all options that can provide structured support without removing the teen from their home environment entirely.

Non-Residential Intervention Options:

• Intensive outpatient therapy programs
• Partial hospitalization programs
• Wilderness therapy expeditions
• Mentorship and community support programs
• Family-based interventions

These alternatives can offer flexibility while still providing the necessary support and structure for troubled teens.

In conclusion, while summer military camps in Texas may seem like an appealing option for parents of troubled teens, it’s crucial to carefully consider all available alternatives. By assessing your teen’s specific needs, exploring therapeutic options, and seeking professional guidance, you can make an informed decision that best supports your child’s long-term well-being and success.

Boot Camps & Military Schools in Texas

Home / Boot Camps & Military Schools in Texas

Are you the parent of a troubled teenager and seeking a residential treatment program? If so, Help Your Teen Now is an excellent resource for you to use. We’re a parent organization created to assist those who need more information and resources about teen help programs, and Help Your Teen Now is standing by to help you make this difficult decision. Many Texas parents begin the process by looking up military schools and boot camps in Texas, mistakenly believing that the strict nature of these programs will cause troubled teens to straighten up. However, there are many therapeutic options out there that may be better for your teenager. Help Your Teen Now will work with you to match the right program with your teenager’s specific emotional, behavioral or mental health needs.

Our resources, experience and expertise are designed to help parents who have nowhere to turn for unbiased and really honest information about all the different teen help programs out there. Help Your Teen Now has lots of information gathered from parents and teens across the country. The information we have is available to any Texas parents seeking advice and guidance on teen therapy programs. Don’t send your teen to the first Texas military school or boot camp you find, because there are a range of therapeutic options out there.

Help Your Teen Now provides free consultations for parents when you call 1-800-901-7347. To learn if a military school for troubled teens is the best program for your teen read more. We will give you information that is valuable in deciding what it will take to best help your at-risk teen.

Military Schools and Boot Camps Aren’t the Best Option for Troubled Teens Says Help Your Teen Now

There are a number of teen help programs out there, and some are better than others when it comes to healing troubled teens. Short-term options include wilderness camps, boot camps and some residential treatment centers. Long-term programs include residential treatment centers and therapeutic boarding schools. Military schools aren’t really considered teen therapy programs because they lack an intensive therapeutic component and really just prepare teens for a military career. Programs that truly provide long-term results for teens dealing with emotional, behavioral or mental health issues have high success rates and a focus on healing and hope. Help Your Teen Now would be happy to introduce you to a number of therapeutic boarding schools that will best meet your teenager’s needs and put a stop to the bad behavior.

Military Schools and Boot Camps in Texas State

School Name

Category

Ages

School Style

Marine Military Academy

Details

Boys

14-17

Military School

Texas Military Institute

Details

Co-ed

11-17

Military School

Get Motivated Boot Camp

Details

Co-ed

12-17

Boot Camp

Resolution Ranch

Details

Co-ed

13-17

Therapeutic Boarding School

Texas Challenge Academy

Details

Co-ed

16-18

Therapeutic Boarding School

Texas Regulatory Laws For Boot Camps & Military Schools

All facilities that house children are regulated and licensed by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. This department sets the standards for all state licensed programs in the teen help industry in Texas.

A private Texas school is not required to be accredited or licensed. Teachers at private schools do not need certification unless the facility is accredited voluntarily. All students must submit immunization records to attend a Texas private school (Tex. Education Code §38.001). Every employee of Texas private schools must have a criminal history check performed (Tex.Education Code Ann. §22.083).

(U.S. Department of Education, State Regulation of Private Schools, 2009)

Reference: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/comm/choice/regprivschl/regprivschl.pdf

Summary

Let HelpYourTeenNow Help You Find the Best Texas School For Your Teen

Often, teenagers deal with issues like anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, abuse trauma, aggression, oppositional defiant disorder, substance abuse, hostility and violence, low self-esteem and unmanageable behavior. Proper military schools won’t put up with that kind of behavior, but therapeutic boarding schools employ licensed and experienced guides, therapists, counselors, mentors and teachers to work with the troubled teens and inspire them to change. When you know your teenager needs outside help and needs it fast, consider working with Help your Teen Now to identify a facility that may be just what your teenager needs.

Turn to Help Your Teen Now for some real resources from a non-biased source. You’ve waited a long time to get help for your teen, so find a facility that offers the best chance of providing positivelong-term effects for at-risk teens. Call us at 1-800-901-7347 for a free consultation.

ADD SCHOOL TO LIST

Texas Challenge Academy – Texas Military Department

The Texas National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program—Reclaiming the potential of at-risk teens through mentoring, education, training and volunteer service.

One of the major social challenges facing the nation today is the plight of teenagers that drop out of high school before graduation. Every day, over 5,000 students drop out of high school in this country – that amounts to more than one million dropouts every year. In May 2006, in a Time Magazine cover story, the editors deemed America a “Drop-Out Nation.”

The Texas ChalleNGe Academy (TCA) is a volunteer program for 16 to 18 year-old teens that are at-risk of dropping out or that have already dropped out of high school. TCA offers a second chance for success to qualified students, without regard to race, sex, religious affiliation, or household income. TCA is an accredited high school through a partnership with the Rice Consolidated Independent School District in Eagle Lake, Texas. Cadets will work towards high school credit recovery, obtaining their G.E.D., and in some cases, Cadets may qualify to earn a high school diploma. The program of instruction is based on a military style training environment. Young men and women that volunteer to attend must be committed to completing the 5 1/2 month residential phase and the 12-month post-residential phase.

It is important to know what the Texas ChalleNGe Academy is, but it is equally important to understand what TCA is not. There is no military obligation for the students. It is not a juvenile detention center. It is not a court ordered boot camp. It is not affiliated with the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. It is not a drug or alcohol treatment center.

Purpose of the Texas National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program

To improve the education, life skills, and employment potential of youth who are disengaged from traditional educational settings. This is accomplished by providing military-based training, discipline, and structure, job readiness training, and alternative educational approaches through eight core components. These core components include assisting the participants to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent; developing leadership qualities; promoting fellowship and service to community; developing life coping and job skills; and improving physical fitness, health, and hygiene.

The military-based training model is the foundation upon which the Challenge program is built.  It closely resembles structured and disciplined entry level military training that teaches the participants the life-long non-cognitive skills necessary to become successful adults.  Personal skills such as impulse control, self-discipline and self-regulation, teamwork, follow-through, persistence, and delayed gratification are taught in the lessons of the eight core components in the residential setting.  Participants who were unable to be successful in a traditional school setting learn personal responsibility and accountability for their choices that translates well into marketable post residential opportunities.

History

The Texas ChalleNGe Academy, formerly Seaborne Conservation Corps began as an AmeriCorps Program in 1994. Other program sponsors included the United States Navy, the Texas National Guard and Texas A&M University at Galveston. The program transitioned to the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program in 1999 and is now operated solely by the Texas Military Department. Following Hurricane Ike’s devastating landfall on Galveston Island in 2008 the campus was relocated to Sheffield, Texas. Texas also opened a second campus in Eagle Lake, Texas in July, 2015.  In August 2018, the Sheffield campus was closed and consolidated into the Eagle Lake campus.  The program is funded through the Department of Defense with matching funds from Texas and private foundations/donations. Therefore, TCA is tuition free to the families we serve.

Goals of ChalleNGe

• To teach GED preparation and marketable skills through effective education and training
• To provide a safe haven in which to learn and grow in a structured and disciplined residential environment.
• To prepare a foundation of positive values that foster maximum educational and growth potential
• To serve by providing the opportunity to give back to the community through volunteer service
• To mentor cadets through a continuous relationship with a positive role model for 12 months following the 22-week residential phase

Evidence on the Effectiveness of the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program.

1. MDRC Report

2. RAND Corporation Report

3. CLEAR Report

The program requires a 17 ½ month commitment and is divided into two phases:

(1) The 5 ½-month Residential Phase

Challenge achieves the greatest impact on disengaged youth by bringing in those best suited to benefit from the structured and disciplined residential environment.   It is vitally important in the recruitment/selection process to choose those individuals most likely to complete the program, thereby maximizing the program’s resources and providing the opportunity to a greater number of applicants.  Rigorous screening and selection criteria are the cornerstone of this phase.

The Residential Phase encompasses two elements:

Acclimation – The first two weeks of the residential phase is designed to provide an entry level phase to orient each candidate to the rigors of the program’s environment and to determine a candidate’s willingness/ability to assimilate into the 20-week residential education program. The candidates will receive instruction in Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, the Post Residential Action Plan, Customs and Courtesies, Sexual Harassment, Hygiene, a Healthy Lifestyle, Close Order Drill and Physical Fitness. The candidate’s performance is evaluated twice daily by the Cadre for their potential to successfully complete the 17 ½ month program.

Residential Phase – Upon successful completion of the Acclimation Phase the candidates are issued their uniforms and sworn in as cadets during a small acclimation graduation ceremony. The cadets begin receiving instruction in the 8 Core Components. The application of a caring, disciplined environment and the eight core components develops character, strengthens personal skills, and guides cadets toward self-governance. They also begin Academic classes to recover/earn credits, prepare for the GED or earn their High School Diploma. The cadets can earn merits/promotions for additional privileges or receive demerits/rank reduction for improper behavior. There is one family visitation day and the cadets will have one home pass during Thanksgiving in the fall and Memorial Day during the spring. The Residential phase of the program is 20 weeks in length. 

(2) The 12-month Post-Residential Phase

The 12-month post-residential, mentoring follow-through, phase supports the ChalleNGe participants in transitioning their newly formed skills into their home environment after they leave the ChalleNGe campus at the end of the Residential Phase. During the Residential Phase the cadets will develop their Post-Residential Action Plan (PRAP). The PRAP is a goal driven document that identifies what the graduate will pursue during the 12-month Post-Residential Stage and beyond.

During the 12-month post-residential phase, the program staff is assisted by mentors who support the program graduates in sustaining the execution of their plans for the future. The graduates will work with their mentors and Case Managers to maintain placement in continuing education (return to High School, vocational school or College), enlistment in the military, or employment. They must meet with their mentors weekly; two of the meetings must be face to face. Both the mentor and the graduate must report monthly to their Case Manager.

The 8 Core Components are broken into tasks where cadets must show improvement or demonstrate mastery to successfully complete the program. Passing the GED or receiving a High School Diploma are not required for graduation from the program.

Academic Excellence

All ChalleNGe participants attend daily academic classes that increase math and reading comprehension and prepare them for General Education Development (GED) credential testing, credit recovery, or a high school diploma. Evaluation of a cadet’s grade level progress during the Residential Phase is measured using the Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE). Cadets also explore the knowledge and skills required to pursue future educational opportunities.

Health and Hygiene

Cadets learn the value of a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle. ChalleNGe offers a holistic approach that combines physical and mental well-being as cadets explore the effects of substance abuse and sexually transmitted diseases on their physical health and well-being. Cadets learn the physical and emotional benefits of proper nutrition through participation in classes and structured group discussions.

Job Skills

Cadets prepare for long-term, gainful employment. Career exploration is accomplished through career assessment and interest inventories, job specific skills orientation and awareness. Specific classroom activities focus on development of individual resumes, completing job applications, and preparation for and conduct of job interviews.

Leadership/Followership

Cadets develop strong character while identifying and applying individual moral and ethical standards to perform various roles and responsibilities in a structured group environment. They learn to willingly comply with established rules, regulations, and procedures; perform basic military customs and courtesies; define and recognize leadership skills, traits, dimensions, and components; employ leadership skills while performing in a leadership position; maintain a personal living area; and function as an effective team member.

Life-Coping Skills

Cadets learn skills designed to last a lifetime. Increased self-esteem and self-discipline are gained through a combination of classroom activities, group discussions, and a structured living environment. Cadets learn how to identify and self-regulate emotions, such as anger, grief, frustration, stress and how to utilize conflict resolution strategies. ChalleNGe provides the educational resources necessary to foster fiscal responsibility, helping cadets understand personal finance, basic banking, obtaining and managing good credit, and how to prepare and manage a personal budget.

Physical Fitness

Physical fitness becomes an integral part of cadet daily life. Cadets perform daily physical training based on the President’s Challenge, a test battery based on data collected from a variety of sources including the 1985 President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports National School Population Fitness Survey, the Amateur Athletic Union Physical Fitness Program, and the Canada Fitness Award Program.

Responsible Citizenship

Cadets discover their role in the democratic process and learn their rights, privileges, and obligations as United States citizens. The U.S. Government structure and processes, along with individual rights and responsibilities at the local, state and national level, are addressed in the classroom environment, in the student government process, and through practical experiences within local communities. Those who are eligible register for selective service and to vote.

Service to Community

Cadets realize the value and importance of giving back to the community while performing a minimum of 40 hours of service to the community and/or conservation projects in groups or on an individual basis. These activities provide additional opportunities for career exploration as well as enhancing community needs awareness in cadets.

Reveille comes at 4:45 am, by 5:00 am the cadets are in formation for physical training, academic classes are from 7:30 am through 3:00 pm and Taps is at 8:45 pm. It’s a full day.

0445   Reveille

0500   Physical Training

0600   Barracks Maintenance

0630   Breakfast Rotation

0720   Accountability Formation

0730   Academics

1130   Lunch

1300   Academics

1500   Snack/Accountability Formation

1515   Life Skills, Case Management & Job Skills Classes

1630   Small Unit Training; Drill Platoon, Recon & Weight Lifting

1730   Retreat/ Accountability Formation

1740   Dinner Rotation

1900   Hygiene/Personal Time

2030   Quiet Time

2045   Taps

On Wednesdays we have an Awards Formation and a Guest Speaker.

On Saturdays the cadets perform Service to the Community.

On Sundays the cadets are allowed to worship, attend positive reinforcement events (if eligible) and participate in intramural sports.

Texas ChalleNGe Academy Graduates

ERIC CAPUANO

FORMER AIR FORCE STAFF SERGEANT WORKING ON PREDATOR AND REAPER AIRCRAFT.  NOW ENGINEERING TECH WITH SAMSUNG AND TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST

Setting foot at Seaborne Challenge Corps, as it was known at the time, I had no idea that I’d ever be capable of anything noteworthy in my life. Being a ‘poor performer’ in the public school system basically drained me of any self-confidence or aspirations of a greater future.

Seaborne Challenge was the turning point for me, as most graduates will agree. I left that school with confidence and pride a mile wide and went on to do things that still surprise me to this day. But I never forgot where I found that confidence and the opportunity which unlocked that capability in me.

I was a Staff Sergeant in the Air Force working on Predator and Reaper drone aircraft. Since then, I’ve separated from active duty and began working full-time for Samsung in Austin, Texas as an engineering technician responsible for making microprocessors. I still hold my job with Samsung but have spent the last two years serving full-time with the Texas Air National Guard as a cyber security specialist working in a highly classified environment with some of the nation’s most cutting-edge computer systems. In this position, it is my responsibility to analyze threats to the infrastructure of the Air Force and develop tactics and techniques to mitigate those threats. I spend my free-time tinkering in robotics and engineering and have founded the Central Texas chapter of a community for operators of small civilian drone aircraft. This group’s primary goal is promoting the use of flying robots for civilian, recreational, agricultural, search and rescue as well as hobby purposes. Our larger community is 3000+ members strong worldwide.

The Texas Challenge Academy gave me the education, confidence and motivation to overcome adolescent mistakes. I could not have started this career and would not have experienced success without the Texas Challenge Academy.

TESS HAWKINS

US NAVY, DECORATED IRAQ VET, RICE UNIVERSITY’S BAKER FOUNDATION

Early in my youth, I began to experiment with drugs and alcohol. The experimenting led to drug addiction, running away from home, and dropping out of high school. In January, 2003, I was accepted into Seaborne Challenge Corps (Texas Challenge). I was selected Squad Leader and Platoon Leader, earned my GED and graduated in 2003. I enlisted in the US Navy at 18 and, during that time, participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“I grew up in a middle class family in the suburbs of Kingwood where I was once an ‘A—B” student and a competitive cheerleader at my 5-A high school. Early in my youth, I began to experiment with drugs and alcohol. The experimenting led to drug addiction, running away from home and school attendance issues. Shortly after starting my junior year of high school, I dropped out. At that point, my mom had felt that there was little hope for me. I would either end up dead on the streets or in jail at the age of 17.

In January, 2003, I was accepted into SeaBorne Challenge Corps where I was selected as Squad Leader and Platoon Sgt. I was also able to earn my GED and graduate in June.

In November, 2003, I enlisted in the US Navy at the age of 18. I spent Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve away from my family for the first time in my life, but that would prepare me for many deployments.

In March, 2004, I was assigned to the USS Nimitz in San Diego where I spent three years onboard. I spent eight months the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In November, 2009, I was onboard the USS Carl Vinson where we were dispatched to Haiti as first responders after the hurricane and later was in the Arabian Gulf when Osama bin Laden was buried at sea off the deck. In October, 2011, I was assigned to the Space and Warfare Command in San Diego. I was honorably discharged from the Navy after nine years.

I recently earned my associates degree and am enrolled in a Bachelor’s program. Without Challenge, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

AWARDED NAVY COMMENDATION MEDAL, 5 NAVY ACHIEVEMENT MEDALS, 2 GOOD CONDUCT MEDALS, NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL, GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM SERVICE AND EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL, AND HUMANITARIAN SERVICE MEDAL.

CHRIS HINES

USMC, DECORATED IRAQ VET, POLICE OFFICER

“When I was in high school, I did my best work in an in-school suspension program. When I had no structure, I spent my time with friends vandalizing property, drinking, and other things I shouldn’t, so my mother told me, it was either Challenge or jail.”

“When I went to Seaborne Challenge Corps (now TCA) in August of 2003, I learned a lot about leadership and service to others. I got my GED and while I was there I was inspired to serve my country as a Marine infantryman. I had my first deployment to Anbar Province in Iraq in March, 2005. During my second deployment in August, 2006, I volunteered for the advanced party to go in and prepare the area before the rest of the battalion arrived. Unfortunately, I was seriously wounded by an IED. After receiving a medical discharge, I returned to Austin and enrolled in Austin Community College on the GI Bill. I decided to serve the State of Texas as a police officer. Without my training at Challenge, I would never have come this far.”

AWARDED PURPLE HEART, NAVY/MARINE CORPS ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL, IRAQI CAMPAIGN MEDAL, GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM MEDAL, GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL, NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL

STEPHANIE BERTRAND

ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH, AND SAFETY MGR CHEVRON PHILLIPS CHEMICALS

As a young teenager, I didn’t make the right choices in life and I wasn’t “the model child” by far. I started getting arrested at thirteen years old for stealing my parent’s cars and running away. I was always in the detention center for fighting and skipping school until finally I was forced to drop out in the eighth grade after becoming pregnant at fourteen years old.

It wasn’t until my daughter was born when reality finally hit me! All my friends were having fun, getting ready for high school and actually getting to enjoy their teenage years while I was a young mother with a world of responsibility ahead of me at such a young age. “How could I do this to myself?” I would ask myself that question every night as I cried myself to sleep.

Since graduation I’ve had several wonderful job opportunities and two beautiful daughters that both look up to me. My oldest daughter even remembers coming to visit me on family days. I’m currently an Environmental, Health and Safety Manger for Brock Service (industrial, construction contractor) at Chevron Phillips Chemical Plant in Baytown Texas. I’ve been in the industry for over 13 years and in management since I was 25 years old in a male-dominated industry. I am still utilizing the strong ethics and leadership skills that I received from Seaborne.

Thanks to Texas Challenge, I was blessed with a second chance to make something of myself, become part of something positive, learn the true meaning of “TEAM” and become someone my daughters can look up to with pride. I can honestly say that without the encouragement and genuinely caring staff, I wouldn’t be where I am today…taking with me priceless memories and lifelong friendships.

Texas ChalleNGe Academy Parents

Hello my name is Velma and my son is Danny Gonzales graduated the Texas Challenge Academy a few years back. I just want to say THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart. We were at a point in our lives that we thought our son was not going to graduate at all, yet alone find a decent job. He was going through difficult times and he made the decision to join the Academy on his own. And I as a parent along with his stepfather just wanted to keep supporting him in every way. And thanks to God he made it with the help of everybody from the academy. They supported and gave him the confidence he needed to start believing in himself. I saw drastic changes within weeks of him being there. I love your program and would so recommend it to whomever may need it in the near future. Also, I am so glad to report that my son did join the Army and has been serving our military for almost four years. He’s stationed up in Hawaii and is very happy doing what he does. I look forward to seeing him succeed from here on out.

Sincerely, a happy mother and parent, Velma Vasquez.

Our son Ryan was on the verge of quiting school in 11th grade, doing drugs, and with a bad attitude. The recruiters came and Ryan accepted the challenge. Not only did Ryan graduate with a GED and HS DIPLOMA but the life skills he learned and retained have remained with him throughout his journey into manhood. Ryan is now a responsible adult living on his own and perusing plans for attending college. Thank you TCA!

Simon and Tracey Ortiz

“When my 16 year old son came home for his first liberty, we were so very proud of him. When we picked him up, he was standing up straight with his shoulders back, proud of the changes he had made. The change in him is a miracle. We sent a child and TCA is making him a man. He is so proud of what he’s been able to do physically, and still pushes himself beyond what he feels is his limit. Thank God for TCA. Our son is out there doing what he thought was impossible. He’s learned to have faith in himself. Our thanks and prayers go out to everyone at TCA.”

All our gratitude,

Mike and Deana

“Before my son went to TCA in Sheffield in January, he was on the wrong road, making bad decisions for himself. We were looking at fines for him not going to school. My husband and I went to the principal and told him we were out of answers and we had nowhere to go from here. He told us about Texas Challenge Academy. My son, Steven, agreed to go, and he was made to see that he does have a future and that he is worth something. He now has self-esteem, self-worth, and pride in himself. Because of Texas Challenge Academy and Steven’s hard work, he took the oath to join the Air Force to train to be a pilot – a dream of his since childhood.”

Proud parent of Steven Moore, Jr.

Schona Moore,

“I don’t know all of your names, but this thank you card goes to all of you. You have to have passion and belief in what you’re doing every day. I am amazed at your program and what you do. Because of your program, my son has been rescued. Thanks for caring about these kids!”

Cliff and Lisa Davis

Contact TCA

TCA Main Phone Number: 877-822-0050
Email the Texas Challenge Academy
TCA Careers

Eagle Lake Campus

600 HWY 3013 West, Eagle Lake, Texas 77434

David De Mers

Director

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2001
Email David De Mers

Carrie Smith

Deputy Director

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2009
Email Carrie Smith

Lamont Porch

Commandant

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2022
Email Lamont Porch

Adrienne Bowers

Program Coordinator

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2014
Email Adrienne Bowers

Shirley Jones

Mentor Coordinator

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2013
Email Shirley Jones

Medical Department

Phone: 979-234-3531 X 2015

 

Military-patriotic sports camp “Vympel-Storm” official site

Tatyana

We are very glad that we discovered the camp “Vympel-Storm”! Matveyka was already in the camp for the 2nd time and wants to come back in the spring. In many ways, this is the merit of his beloved counselor, Kirill Viktorovich) Thanks to all the staff for organizing interesting leisure activities, active children, for educating and feeding;) Here children are tempered, healed, find friends and activities to his liking … And this time Matveyka also found a bride for himself, very happy;) Won a monkey, a keychain-bullet in competitions; at the festival he earned delicious pancakes for himself in competitions. Children climbed ropes, overcame a smoke screen, played laser tag, jumped in a disco, watched movies and drank tea with dryers! The child always returns happy and with a lot of impressions. And here I also had a chance to visit the leader of the Indians! ;)Thank you, Kirill Viktorovich)

Yuliana

Greetings! The 36th shift was very rich in events and creative competitions. Thanks to the organizers and already beloved instructors and counselors for this!
The child went to #VympelStorm for the third time and always returns happy! I can safely recommend it to all boys and girls who love outdoor activities, sports and military adventures!

Anna

My son was on the 35th shift in the crew detachment with an absolutely amazing leader Muravyov Kirill Viktorovich. Attentive, sensitive attitude to children, to their hygiene, health. The children were always cheerful, well-fed, warm and dry))) and what is very important, the parents were also calm thanks to the photo reports! The daily routine was thought out from and to: and training, and sports, and walks, and fun! Kirill Viktorovich is a born teacher! The son remembers him, and Oleg Yakovlevich, and other coaches with warmth! Thank you, Vimpel Storm!

Kristina

Good afternoon! I sent my son to Vympel-Storm, which we already knew and loved, for the autumn holidays (10.26.-11.02.). One of the first questions that my son (9 years old) asked me at the meeting was the question about the winter shift)) The son was very pleased! Before that, we had a rest in August in Tuapse. Each season leaves its impressions about the rest, events held. But, I’m glad that all these impressions are only positive! Many thanks to the commander of the “Crew” detachment Muravyov Kirill Viktorovich for a sensitive and caring approach to children, for the unquenchable desire to bring something new and interesting to their leisure, as well as the desire to instill a sense of responsibility and teach discipline . .. Dima was very impressed and lectures of the writer and historian Oleg Vereshchagin. Hosting events with invited guests is a great idea for a camp! Thanks to “Vympel Storm” for organizing and responsible approach to the implementation of the idea of ​​military-patriotic education of youth! Further development and new achievements! We will be following the new events with interest!

Maria

“Vympel-Storm” – the first camp for my girls (8 and 10 years old). This summer we decided it was time. We chose for a long time. A lot of things mattered – place, time, price, reviews. All this was embodied in two wonderful shifts. Change in the Pushkin mountains and sea shift. Thanks to Mnogomama and the camp management for a good discount for families with many children. Without you, we would be sitting at home in gadgets. With you, the children have seen and experienced a lot. Campaigns, songs by the fire, group candles, acquaintance with the history of Russia and people. Survival, mountaineering, rafting, reconnaissance, weapons, sorties for strawberries, pancakes (Lada Viktorovna) the best commanders are Kirill Viktorovich, Arina Tamazovna and Anton Viktorovich! Super-director – Pavel Alekseevich, Oleg Yakovlevich, Yuri Alekseevich, Svetlana Evgenievna – thanks for everything! The best camp, sincere people, new friends – this summer will be remembered for a long time. See you on future shifts! Goodbye, “Vympel-Storm”

TEENAGERS IN DIAPERS – THE NEW REALITY. YOU ARE FUNNY AND THE TEACHERS ARE SCARY – REBONOK.RU – July 15 – 43122431379

EKATERINA PANFILOVA

The family is growing a baby. On the way to growing up, parents face both the joys of new achievements and the difficulties of upbringing, and this is a big and important part of our life. However, sometimes people are so “generous” that they share their worries with others. Why waste time on raising a child, if you can pass the “baton” to the teacher?

My child is your concern

It may seem absurd to you, but teachers in Switzerland are complaining about the increased number of children who … go to school in diapers. At the same time, attempts to offer the child a school toilet as a logical alternative lead to awkward situations – children do not understand what they want from them and what needs to be done there. They just haven’t been taught.

Now children go to school as early as four years old, so yes, you can actually find some still in diapers,” says the head of the Swiss Federation of Teachers, Dagmar Resler, in an interview with local newspaper 20 Minuten.

And he immediately adds that the situation when 11-year-old children come to school in diapers is already a “worrisome trend”.

PHOTO: © SEBASTIAN GOLLNOW/DPA/GLOBALLOOKPRESS

Many younger students are so used to wearing diapers that they lose interest in giving up this convenient but unsanitary method. Indeed, the good of civilization, which makes life easier for young parents, becomes an unhygienic household item for an adult child.

It’s simple: teachers during their working hours are busy giving children knowledge and discipline in the classroom, but such a function as “changing a student’s diaper” is simply not provided.

According to medical experts, the average age of potty training for children is between 18 and 24 months, but many parents seem to avoid this activity, as teachers observe.

Some parents don’t care because diapers are convenient. It’s not seen as a problem these days, said education expert Margriet Stamm, noting that “it sends the wrong message.”

Teachers say that this situation directly affects the quality of the classroom. There are no extra hours in the school day, so while the teacher helps a student with a wet diaper, the rest of the children do not receive their legal education.

PHOTO: © ANNETTE RIEDL/DPA/GLOBALLOOKPRESS

Child development expert Rita Messmer believes that parents are responsible for ensuring that their school-age children no longer wear diapers.

It is not the responsibility of a teacher to change diapers for his students. It goes beyond all bounds,” says Resler.

US not far behind

As the problem rages in Switzerland, Buffalo, New York reports that local parents have failed to teach their children how to use the toilet.

Teacher aides here say diaper changes are not part of their job, said Phil Rumor, president of the Buffalo Federation of Teachers.

Teachers are losing patience with dirty diapers and parents who do not want to teach their children.

PHOTO: © FRANK HOERMANN / SVEN SIMON/GLOBALLOOKPRESS

There is no policy or procedure to work with a child, potty train him or clean up after him when he has an awkward moment,” said Rumor, noting that “the teacher can’t do this because it takes time for the class”.

The Buffalo Teachers’ Federation reported 43 schoolchildren not taught how to use the toilet, leading to embarrassing situations and bullying by students. Schoolchildren do not understand the “newfangled trend” and make fun of classmates. Often it’s cruel.

PHOTO: © THOMAS KOEHLER/PHOTOTHEK.NET VIA/WWW.IMAGO-IMAGES.DE/GLOBALLOOKPRESS

At the same time, experts note that there are situations when a child has mental problems or suffers from diseases that affect bowel movements. In such cases, it is indeed necessary to use diapers. However, often we are talking about the laziness of parents or their “ultra-modern views” on education, they say, the child himself will figure out when to go to the potty. Even if he is already a student.

Parents are urged to do quite obvious things: to watch babies who begin to give signs of the desire to go to the toilet, and also to teach them to use the potty. You should not do this with excessive persistence and compete with other parents who will teach faster. This should happen within reason and become a logical step in growing up a child.

What parents themselves think

It is fair to say that so far most Western users still do not consider it normal to take a child to school in diapers. Some offer “quick fixes” to the problem.

If your child needs a diaper change, start charging parents for service and troubleshooting. I bet the kids will quickly learn how to go to the toilet in this case. That’s not what public education is for, says Loves Texas.

Others simply cannot imagine the situation in which their adult children are being treated by a teacher.

This is quite difficult for teachers, especially when children become teenagers. I can’t imagine a situation in which my child’s teacher would be involved in his bathroom needs, VietVetinOhio shares.

If 5-year-olds can decide for themselves that they are the “wrong sex”, why can’t they learn how to use the toilet themselves? – Grusky Base Camp is interested.

Some joke and allude to the US president: “ So what? In the US, our leaders wear diapers,” jokes Ace12.

PHOTO: © STEVE TAYLOR/ KEYSTONE PRESS AGENCY/GLOBALLOOKPRESS

However, there are those who believe that teachers should have more responsibilities. User Mike Oxbig spoke about her 14-year-old daughter, who has had bladder problems since birth. She noted that she would like to hear the opinion of teachers who speak out against diapers at school. According to the woman, such “should not be teachers.” However, other users immediately drew her attention to the trend associated with the laziness of the parents, and not with the diseases of the children, and noted that, if necessary, in this case, her child is already old enough to change the diaper on his own.

Of course, I’m glad that the majority of the inhabitants of the “advanced West” still consider the topic of “school diapers” to be at least strange and wrong, however, even uncles with makeup were considered wildness before. And now – nothing, got used to it. And remember the so-called “furries” – schoolchildren who consider themselves animals. They are allowed to go to school in appropriate costumes and even put trays in the classroom. And for residents of the United States, this is already a new “norm”.

Summing up, we can only say that for a Russian person, such problems of modern Europeans look, to put it mildly, ridiculous. But all this is happening in the world.