The Atlantic City Police Junior Police Academy concluded on July 22, 2024, where 58 recruits graduated. This intensive, two-week program, broken up into two sessions, was designed for 5th and 6th grade students from Atlantic City public schools.

 

The Academy aimed to instill positive behaviors, emphasizing respect, discipline, physical fitness, and leadership skills. The curriculum included classes and demonstrations from the ACPD SWAT team, ACPD Forensics, ACPD Bomb Squad, ACPD training unit on firearms safety, K9 demonstrations, VICE, Atlantic City Fire Department, Atlantic City Beach Patrol, and LEAD (Law Enforcement Against Drugs). Additionally, students participated in a rigorous one-hour physical fitness session, military drills, and life skills training.

 

A key focus of the program was helping students overcome the fear of public speaking, enhance listening skills, develop military bearing, and push beyond their physical and mental limits. The Academy was led by Sgt. M. Kaiser.