The Challenger Academy physically opened its doors in August 2001. The original staff consisted of Mr. Jerry Maze, Program Director, Ms. Sue Froehner and Mrs. T. Zellar, Instructors, along with Mrs. Lois Liddle, Counselor. While working at LHS, Ms. Froehner and Mrs. Zellar saw a need for students that could be potential drop-outs. The teachers knew that many factors were keeping the students from completing course work for their high school diplomas. The program was designed to help non-traditional students meet the requirements neccessary for their high school diplomas. Because of the efforts of many people, the program has graduated over 200 students.