Kentwood Police Department Invites High School Students to Youth Academy

Four-day Program in July Will Offer Hands-on Experience in Police Training and Operations 

The Kentwood Police Department is inviting high school students to apply for its youth academy, set to take place July 25-28.

The academy is open to all graduating seniors and students who will be a sophomore, junior or senior in the 2022-23 school year. It is geared toward young people who are interested in a career in law enforcement and who want to experience what it’s like to be a police officer. Participants do not need to live or attend school in Kentwood.

The free program will run 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day at the Kentwood Police Department, 4742 Walma Ave. SE. It will provide students with hands-on experience in police training and operations. Participants will receive instruction in various aspects of policing and participate in training scenarios, including:

• Building searches
• Drunken driving enforcement
• Handcuffing
• Special Response Team
• And more!

Eligible participants must possess good moral character and pass a background check. They will be interviewed before being accepted into the program and be required to attend a pre-academy informational meeting with a parent or guardian. Each participant will be provided a uniform and daily lunch.

Applications are due by May 13 and can be submitted online, by email to wierengat@kentwood.us, in person at the Police Department or by mail to Sgt. Tim Wierenga at 4742 Walma Ave. SE, Kentwood, MI 49512. For any questions, contact Sgt. Wierenga at wierengat@kentwood.us or 616.656.6561.