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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Idaho dropouts could be headed for boot camp

Associated Press
PIERCE, Idaho — High school dropouts could earn their diplomas through a proposed boot camp-style program that’s planned for economically depressed northcentral Idaho. The Lewiston Tribune reports that the National Guard’s Youth Challenge Program would bring about 60 new jobs to the remote rural community of Pierce. The area has seen its economic fortunes flag with the decline of the timber industry. An old school at the north end of town would accommodate the program, but first needs to be renovated. Two classes would be held annually, for nearly six months each. They’d start with a two-week boot camp. Kids who leave Idaho high schools without graduating would have to apply in order to participate. The U.S. Department of Defense may decide on whether to fund the program later this year.