By Kelsey Ligon
The Zionsville Police Dept. is accepting applications for its eighth annual Teen Academy at Zionsville Town Hall. The academy will run June 6 to 10 and allow participants age 12 to 16 to receive hands-on training from police officers.
Originally implemented in June 2009, the ZPD Teen Academy still serves the same purpose it did eight years ago: to foster a stronger relationship between teens and their local police department and to begin strengthening ties with future community members and leaders.
Additionally, ZPD and its partner, the Boys and Girls Club of Zionsville, hope that this program will provide teens with good role models and mentors to help them build character.
Zionsville’s Chief of Police, Robert Knox, is excited for the opportunity to spend time with local teens.
“We get as much out of it as the teens,” Knox said. “It does your heart good to see kids out and participating as a team.”
Officers will provide instruction on a variety of topics including alcohol, drug and tobacco use, traffic stops, cybercrimes, special response teams, character development, use of K-9s, defensive tactics, firearms training (simulated) physical training, building searches and team building.
In addition to learning about each of these topics, students will have the opportunity to put their lessons to use and “role play” under the guidance of officers. They will also receive a tour of the department and jail.
At the end of the day, Knox said, “The program creates good, bonding relationships. They know we’re here for them.”
For more, or to enroll, contact the Zionsville Police Dept., or email Capt. Jeff Morris.
