Overview

Next-Gen High School Public Safety Program (PSP) is designed to offer students interested in law enforcement a seamless and supportive direct path, allowing them to receive both academic and practical training and mentoring. The structured progression from high school PSP into a paid police cadet program with our local police departments increases the likelihood of student success by providing a gradual and comprehensive learning experience.

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Program Concept:

Objective: The program aims to provide high school juniors and seniors with an inside look at law enforcement, instill a sense of community responsibility, and create a clear pathway to careers in the field. In light of today's significant challenges in law enforcement, this program addresses two critical issues: recruitment and community relations.  The structured direct connection from the high school Next Gen Public Safety Program to local paid police cadet programs, and eventually the police academy, enhances student success by offering a gradual and comprehensive learning experience. Additionally, the program helps build stronger community and law enforcement relationships. Real community policing involves returning individuals who complete the police academy to serve as officers in the communities where they were raised. Home Grown, We Got Next!

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Program Components:

Classroom Curriculum: The curriculum covers the fundamentals of law enforcement, including topics such as preparing for a career in law enforcement, understanding the rule of law, exploring policing, investigating a crime scene, community engagement, life skills, and community service, among others. Students gain practical, hands-on experience through mock crime scene investigations, court simulations, and ride-alongs with law enforcement agencies. These experiences enable students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, with mentors guiding them through their journey.