Farmington Hills Police Department Looks to Inspire Future Leaders in First-Ever Youth Police Academy
The Farmington Hills Police Department is excited to launch its first-ever Youth Police Academy, a hands-on educational program designed to introduce young community members, ages 12 to 16, to careers in law enforcement and help them build leadership skills. The inaugural Farmington Hills Youth Police Academy will take place over two weeks in early August.
“This academy is a fun and meaningful way for us to connect with young people in the community while giving them an inside look at what it is like to work in law enforcement,” said Farmington Hills Police Chief John Piggott. “We hope to empower and educate the community’s future leaders, foster positive relationships and spark interest in a public service career.”
Participants will explore the skills and dedication it takes to serve in law enforcement through a mix of interactive sessions and demonstrations. Students will have a chance to take part in self-defense training tailored for pre-teens and teens, practice traffic stops, and learn how to collect evidence, including fingerprints and shoe prints. Demonstrations will include sessions with K9 officers and drone operators. Students will also hear from a variety of law enforcement experts who will share professional knowledge and practical life skills, including firearms safety education, safe walking and biking practices, and information on saving money for their future.
All participants should bring a great attitude, enthusiasm, questions they have about working as a police officer and a strong desire to learn. Students will not handle any firearms during the Youth Police Academy.
The Youth Police Academy is free to attend and open to students, ages 12 to 16, who will be asked to complete an application to be considered for the program that will accept up to 30 students. Participants will be provided with a water bottle, backpack, notebook, pen and a t-shirt, and will be expected to wear the t-shirt to each session. Snacks and Gatorade will also be provided.
The Youth Police Academy will run from 6–8:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 4, Wednesday, Aug. 6, Friday, Aug. 8, and Monday, Aug. 11, Wednesday, Aug. 13, and Friday, Aug. 15. Parents or guardians must be able to drop off and pick up students for each session at the Farmington Hills Police Department, located at 31655 W. Eleven Mile Road.
For more information or to apply for the Farmington Hills Police Department Youth Police Academy, email Community Engagement Officer Madison Kean at mkean@fhgov.com.