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.