Free summer programs targeted to youths interested in law enforcement

The Teen Police Academy. [FCPD]

High school students and young adults interested in a career in law enforcement and looking for something to do this summer should check out three free programs hosted by the Fairfax County Police Department.

The Police Leaders of Tomorrow program is aimed at attracting more people from diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds to consider a career in policing.

The session is June 11-15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. It’s open to people from diverse backgrounds ages 18-24. Applications are due April 30.

Classes will be held in various police facilities, including the Pine Ridge Facility in Annandale, Public Safety Headquarters in Fairfax, and the Criminal Justice Academy in Chantilly.

Participants will learn about such issues as crime scene investigation, traffic stops, crisis intervention, the K9 team, and much more.

Any Fairfax County high school student enrolled in a criminal justice class and entering the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade, can sign up for the weeklong Teen Police Academy to learn more about the FCPD, explore careers in law enforcement, and participate in hands-on activities.

The Teen Police Academy is July 16-20. Classes are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at Falls Church High School. The session on Friday is at the Public Safety Headquarters building, noon-7:30 p.m.

Among the topics covered: patrol, crime scene investigations, use of force, SWAT, and the 911 call center. Applications are due May 14.

There’s also a special program for high school girls called Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement on Aug. 6-10. Classes are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at Falls Church High School and Friday, noon-7:30 p.m., at Public Safety Headquarters. Applications are due May 14.

This program is aimed at encouraging more women to consider careers in law enforcement. Participants will learn firsthand about core police functions, meet women leaders in law enforcement, and learn what it takes to become a police officer.
                                       
 For more information on any of these programs, contact Tracey Ryan, 703-246-4315, [email protected].