Understanding Your Options
Youth Challenge Programs
Washington Youth Academy in Bremerton has operated since 2009, serving at-risk youth ages 16-18. This free residential program focuses on GED completion, life skills, and character development.
Admissions & Residency Rules
Geographic Requirements
Washington Youth Academy serves Washington residents ages 16-18 who have dropped out or are at risk of not graduating.
Youth Academy for At-Risk Teens
Washington state offers intervention programming, but no traditional military boarding schools.
Washington Youth Academy
Washington Youth Academy in Bremerton:
- Founded: 2009
- Type: National Guard Youth Challenge program
- Cost: Free
- Eligibility: At-risk Washington youth ages 16-18
- Focus: GED completion, life skills, character development
Out-of-State Boarding School Options
Washington families seeking traditional military boarding schools must look out of state:
- Army and Navy Academy (Carlsbad, CA) - Boys, grades 7-12, about 18 hours from Seattle
- Marine Military Academy (Harlingen, TX) - Boys, grades 7-12, Marine Corps-style
- New Mexico Military Institute (Roswell, NM) - Coed, total cost ~$19K-$26K/year
- St. Catherine's Academy (Anaheim, CA) - Boys, grades TK-8
Washington's 529 plan funds can be used for K-12 tuition at these out-of-state schools (up to $10,000/year).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any military boarding schools in Washington?
No. Washington has no private military boarding schools or military high schools. The Youth Academy is an intervention program for at-risk youth.
What is Washington Youth Academy?
A free National Guard program in Bremerton for at-risk youth ages 16-18. It's a residential intervention program focused on GED completion and life skills.
What's the closest military boarding school to Washington?
Army and Navy Academy in California is about 18 hours from Seattle. New Mexico Military Institute offers an affordable option (~$19,000-$26,000/year total cost). Washington families must travel significant distances for traditional military boarding schools.