Youth Academy

Youth Police Academy

Bergen County Youth Police Academy

The motto of the Bergen County Youth Police Academy is “Honor – Respect – Commitment.” We place strong emphasis on self-respect, respect of others, teamwork, and commitment to one’s goals. The cadets will learn that these attributes can be achieved with focus, discipline, and personal responsibility.

The Academy is an all-day 2-week program offered by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office in partnership with the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office to high school students residing or attending high school in Bergen County. Preference will be given to students entering the 11th or 12th grade. The Academy is free of charge.

The Academy curriculum consists of educational activities as well as physical training activities. The format is similar to what actual police academy cadets experience, and all of the squad instructors are sworn law enforcement officers. Structured events are offered in an interactive, educational, and hands-on manner with the goal of educating the cadets about public service, including law enforcement, emergency services, the judiciary, and county government.

“Youth Academy was such a life-changing and eye-opening experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything… The program inspired me to look into career paths I would have never considered before.”
“Youth Academy has inspired me even more to work in law enforcement. I have been surrounded by extremely honorable and intelligent law enforcement workers for the last 2 weeks. The academy has also shown me to push myself and others.”
“I think the Academy has changed me in ways that I thought wasn’t possible. I am able to believe in myself and have the confidence to complete obstacles and goals without giving up.”
“Youth Academy has been the best thing I’ve ever signed up for. I think because of my instructors and the advice they’ve given me.”

Youth Police Academy Class #16