§ 127A-221.  Definitions.

The following definitions apply for the purposes of this Article:

(1) Academy. - Tarheel Challenge Academy, a Division of the North Carolina National Guard.

(2) Alternative learning program. - A program offered by the Academy that provides specialized services for at-risk students outside of a standard classroom setting. Services should be designed to meet the needs of students who have not been successful in the traditional school setting.

(3) Eligible participant. - An individual who meets all of the following criteria:

a. Is a minimum of 16 years of age and a maximum of 18 years of age at the time of entry into the program.

b. Has failed to complete or has left school for any reason before graduation or completion of a program of studies without transferring to another school and has not received a certificate from a program of equivalency or has not progressed in a traditional high school setting.

c. A citizen or legal resident of the United States.

d. Unemployed or underemployed.

e. Not currently on parole or probation and not accused or convicted of a crime that would be considered a felony if the individual was an adult.

f. Free from use of illegal drugs or substances.

g. Physically and mentally capable to participate in the alternative learning program. (2021-180, s. 19E.2(a).)