LAKEWOOD, NJ — The Lakewood Police Department is inviting local middle school students to participate in the 19th annual Youth Police Academy, a free educational program aimed at fostering relationships between police officers and young residents. Scheduled for August 7 through August 16, the academy will take place daily from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM at Piner Elementary School, located at 1141 E. County Line Road in Lakewood.
Open to youths in grades 6 through 8, the academy offers a dynamic and interactive exploration of law enforcement and public safety professions. Participants will enjoy a series of hands-on activities and demonstrations provided by various public safety agencies, including the Lakewood Emergency Medical Services, Lakewood Fire Department, and specialized units like the Police SRT (Special Response Team), K9, and Water Rescue teams.
This year’s program will also include educational field trips, such as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) tour at Atlantic City International Airport, a visit to the Academy of Law & Public Safety (ALPS), and an exclusive tour of the Lakewood Police Department.
A mandatory meeting for the parents of accepted recruits is scheduled for August 6 at 7:00 PM in the Lakewood Township Municipal Courtroom at 231 Third Street. This meeting will provide vital information about the program and ensure parents are fully informed about their children’s participation.
Registration is open until June 30th. Interested parties can register online at the Lakewood Police Department’s website or contact the Lakewood Police School Resource Officers for more information at SRO@lakewoodpolicenj.com or by calling 732-363-0200, ext. 8293.
The Lakewood Police School Resource Officers expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming academy, stating, “We look forward to developing relationships between Lakewood Police Officers and the youth of our town through this exciting Academy.”
