The Police Department hosts its Summer Youth Academy for local area students between 14 and 18 years of age. The purpose of the Youth Academy is to provide a variety of presentations on the operations of the police department and to share this information with the youth of the community that we serve. There is no cost to attend!

The Youth Academy has been designed to give young people a better understanding of police operations in their community through active participation, communication, and cooperation. At the same time, it allows police officers conducting the sessions a unique opportunity to interact with youth and hear their perception of how the department is serving their needs.

Sessions

The Summer Youth Academy consists of five sessions. The sessions are held each day from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at City Hall. Two sessions will be held away from City Hall with transportation provided by the Police Department. Parents must arrange for transportation of their child to and from City Hall each day. The final session ends with a luncheon for class participants. Each attendee who completes the academy will receive a certificate of attendance.

The Youth Academy covers a wide range of topics including:

• 911 Center / Police Communications
• Patrol Procedures
• Traffic and D.U.I. Enforcement
• Traffic Accident Investigation
• Criminal Investigations / Crime Lab
• Jail Tour
• Witness / Observation Skills
• Safe Driving Skills
• Use of Force Issues
• K-9 Police Dog

Participants

All participants will have the opportunity to tour the Police Department, receive training in a police driving simulator and tour a jail facility. Participants will also be placed in the role of police dispatcher, and participate in mock crime scene evidence collection. Everyone attending the Academy is encouraged to complete one “ride-along” with a police officer.

Participants must wear appropriate clothing for the activity of the day. During classroom activities casual attire, neat in appearance is acceptable. During physical activity more comfortable and loose fitting clothes are acceptable and encouraged. Attire that will not be allowed includes:

• Garments displaying offensive language
• Sexually suggestive pictures
• Tobacco or alcoholic beverage advertisement
• Gang type clothing or accessories
• Tight, transparent or revealing clothing

Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible and professional manner during the program and to treat others with respect. The department reserves the right to excuse and/or dismiss any participant who do not adhere to basic rules.

Register

Participants must commit to attending all sessions offered in order to benefit from the Youth Academy program. If you are interested in attending the Youth Academy, complete the application and mail, fax or email it. Parents must complete and submit waiver of liability and consent to participate forms prior to a student being allowed to attend.

For more information, please email us.