Youth Academy

Youth Police Academy

Bergen County Youth Police Academy

Every summer, the BCPO partners with the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office to host a two-week, all-day Youth Police Academy for high school students residing or attending high school in Bergen County.

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

The Academy curriculum consists of educational activities as well as physical training activities with a format similar to what actual police academy cadets experience. All of the squad instructors are sworn law enforcement officers, and the activities are presented 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 #17

Youth Police Academy Class #16