Youth Academy Program

Photo courtesy of Town of Queen Creek

Over the summer, two QCUSD’s resource officers hosted a Youth Academy program. This community summer camp provided an in-depth look into the world of law enforcement. Officer Williams from QCPD, the program organizer, shared some insights into the program's structure, goals, activities, and impact. Officer Allen from QCHS also helped with the development of the program.

The Youth Academy was held over the course of two weeks and was designed to introduce high school students to the different fields of law enforcement. “Every day, we had different themes and activities planned for the kids," Officer Williams shared.

The program schedule included tours at the dispatch, jails, and records department at QCPD. This also involved talking with detectives in the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) department and learning how to do certain tasks like fingerprinting. 

One of the highlights included a visit from the SWAT team, where students learned about procedures and equipment. "It was a hands-on experience that allowed the kids to see and touch the tools used by the SWAT team," states Officer Williams. 

 "When I started working at the department, I really wanted to implement this program," said Officer Williams. "After planning it out and presenting it to the team, we went ahead and launched it." The Youth Academy program was immediately a success, as the students' only complaint about the program is that it was not long enough. 

Officer Williams wanted to start a Youth Academy in Queen Creek to give students a fun and unique experience over the summer, to not only help them build skills and expertise, but also show students that police officers do more than just write tickets. "By providing them with something productive to do, we help build relationships and create positive experiences with law enforcement." Nine students from Crismon High School participated in the program and greet Officer Williams whenever they see her around campus. 

“The goal is to transition students from the Youth Academy to the cadet program," stated Officer Williams. The Youth Academy builds a foundation, and as students transition into the cadet program it provides more advanced opportunities and helps them figure out what area of law enforcement they may be interested in. 

QCUSD is proud to be a part of a community that offers so many opportunities and experiences for the students we serve. Thank you to our resource officers who help keep our campuses and community safe.