Mathews, Plummer Feasibility Study Bill for At-Risk Youth Unanimously Passes House Committee

State Representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Phil Plummer (R-Dayton) announce that House Bill 137 was unanimously approved by the House Primary and Secondary Education Committee this week. The legislation authorizes a feasibility study for an Ohio program similar to the Kentucky Bluegrass Challenge Academy.

Challenge Academies are transformative programs catering to at-risk youth struggling with educational and behavioral challenges currently in 30 other states and DC, with the Kentucky Bluegrass Challenge Academy currently accepting Ohio students if space exists.

“The Kentucky Bluegrass Challenge Academy is committed to guiding students through a journey of personal growth and academic achievement,” Mathews said. “This important initiative, supported by countless families, aims to ensure that Ohio's youth have access to the best tools available within our state.”

Operated by the Kentucky Department of Military Affairs, the seventeen-month program has two key phases. It begins with a five-month residential phase at Fort Knox. During this period, students reside on-site and receive daily classes closely coordinated with the local school system. Additionally, they benefit from counseling services, providing them with the necessary support to address their unique needs.

The second stage has the graduates transition into the twelve-month post-residential phase. This stage includes dedicated Youth Challenge mentors working alongside them, assisting in continuing education, college enrollment, or finding meaningful employment opportunities. 

“By equipping students with essential tools and experiences, the Kentucky Bluegrass Challenge Academy, if it were implemented in Ohio, we believe will empower them to make informed decisions and lead productive and meaningful lives,” Plummer said.

Four main goals of the program include:

• Achievement: 100% of attending students shall at minimum earn a high school diploma, GED, or an average of four high school credits.
• Mentorship: 100% of attending students will have a qualified mentor prior to graduating from the residential phase.
• Placement: 80% of graduates from the residential phase will have placement representing a return to high school, military, secondary education, vocational placement, or employment.
• cademic Growth: 100% of graduates will increase their academic performance across key areas as a result of their participation in the program.

Ohio students who have participated in recent years have noted that there has been an impact and that there is an urgent need to expand its availability beyond Kentucky's borders. Currently, Ohioans can only enroll if spaces are available after prioritizing Kentuckians. 

Since its inception in 1999, the program has graduated over 4,000 students, solidifying its positive reputation. Remarkably, for every dollar invested, the program generates an average of $2.66 in social benefits, resulting in an impressive return on investment of 166%.

The legislation now awaits consideration on the House floor.