Redmond, OR. — The Oregon Youth ChalleNGe Program (OYCP) celebrated a major milestone on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, as 160 cadets graduated from Class 70 during a ceremony held at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. OYCP, operated by the Oregon National Guard, is an accredited alternative high school program based in Bend.
“Today, 160 cadets will walk across the stage thanks to the collaborative effort of the Youth ChalleNGe staff, the Oregon National Guard, the Department of Education, the Oregon Legislature, the Governor’s Office, our advisory board, and the Deschutes County community,” said OYCP Director Frank Tallman. “The growth and transformation you see in the cadets over these past five months is no accident. It’s a direct reflection of their connection, passion, and commitment.”
OYCP offers at-risk students an opportunity to re-engage with their education, earn high school credits, return to their home schools to graduate with peers, or earn a state-accredited diploma directly through the program. Its 22-week residential curriculum blends structure, academic support, life skills, physical training, and mentorship.
Guest speaker Brig. Gen. Philip R. DeMontigny, Assistant Adjutant General of the Oregon Army National Guard, congratulated graduates and emphasized that their achievement marks a beginning, not an end.
“Today is not the end. It’s a transition point,” DeMontigny said. “Whether rebuilding credits, or accomplishing a GED certificate, completing your high school graduation, or following other academic plans…you did the work, you met the requirement, and earned being here today.”
Founded in 1999, OYCP was created to support teens who had dropped out or were at risk of not graduating. With Department of Defense support, the program’s model focuses on structured guidance, youth development, and community engagement.
Eligible applicants must be between 15 and 18 years old, be legal U.S. and Oregon residents, and be academically behind or at risk of not completing high school.
More information about the program, application requirements, and upcoming classes is available at http://www.oycp.com
or by calling 541-317-9623.
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