THE ACADEMY IS FREE and all learning materials, uniforms and lunches are included.  

This academy will provide the student with first hand knowledge of law enforcement.  

The academy gives the participant an opportunity to a hands on view of  law enforcement.  It assists the participant to make a decision, with the help of veteran police officers, to choose law enforcement as a career.

The academy staff, with the help of school counselors and/or school liaison officers identify those students interested in law enforcement.  Students submit applications to their local police agencies for consideration.  A background investigation will be conducted  consisting of a local criminal history check, a criminal check from the Kent County Juvenile Court and a driving history.

HISTORY

On June 17, 1996 the Metro High School Police Academy became a reality thanks to the cooperation of the Wyoming, Kentwood and Grandville Police Departments.  The Walker Police and Kent County Sheriff's Department as well as Rockford and East Grand Rapids came on board a few years later to have over 29 area schools participate in the program.

PURPOSE

The departments will conduct a "Mini Police Academy" that will be modeled after the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES).  This program will consist of 48 hours of instruction.  The candidates will be evaluated with both written and practical application.  The top five candidates will be allowed to ride along with an officer for one shift, at the convenience of the department.  The top candidate will make his/her department selection first, followed by the other candidates in ranking order.