With summer nearly upon us, many law enforcement agencies are getting ready to open their doors to the law enforcement leaders of tomorrow through Youth and Teen Police Academies.
Youth Police Academies are not boot camps or disciplinary programs; rather they are opportunities for motivated teenagers who are willing to forgo their X-Boxes for physical fitness drills and career-building experiences.
Youth Police Academies range in length from a week to several months and cover the entire spectrum of law enforcement work. Themes and topics vary by agency, but many courses feature hands-on activities like trying on SWAT gear, meeting dogs from K-9 units, dusting for fingerprints, and much more. Participants may get the chance to go on a ride-along with an officer or take a field trip to their local jail or police training academy.
For many, Youth Police Academies provide the spark that leads to a career in law enforcement. Along with learning the ins and outs of this exciting field, participants also take in important lessons about leadership and responsibility, which prepare them not just for the job but for becoming tomorrow’s law enforcement leaders.
Contact your local law enforcement agency to find out about Teen and Youth Police Academy opportunities in your area.
