LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — Leticia Meza, was one of the cadets at the Sunburst Youth Challenge Academy over the summer.

The community high school program is free for five months and serves at-risk youth ages 16 to 18 who fall behind in their credits or dropout.

The National Guard runs the academy. Over the last five months, Meza has learned discipline, integrity and honesty. She’s even become a leader for her group.

Meza will graduate from the academy on Dec. 8, and will be on track to graduate from high school. Meza said she plans on pursuing a career in either the Navy or Military.