The 39th class of the Gloucester Township Junior Police Academy concluded its week-long program on Friday, after a range of activities that gave kids a comprehensive look into police work.
The academy – which saw 27 children in attendance last week – kicked off with physical training at Veteran’s Park. Participants then got a tour of the township police headquarters and the mayor’s office.
Lt. Paul Fisher, who commands the police Community Relations Bureau, provided insight into the structure and goals of the academy.
“We have four academies, two basic and two advanced, which we split by age groups,” he explained. “This week was the 39th class, and we’re holding classes 39 through 42 this year.”
After their initial day of training and tours, the academy children got a full tour of the historic Battleship New Jersey in Camden. Throughout the week, participants also engaged in a variety of physical training exercises and educational activities, including workouts and running, an eye-opening visit to the Camden County jail, a demonstration at the fire academy, classes with various specialty police units – including the Special Response Team and Mobile Command Center – sessions on CPR and first aid and hands-on lessons on property and evidence collection.
The academy’s design aims to provide participants with a realistic glimpse into police work while emphasizing fitness, discipline, and community service.
“The children were especially surprised and intrigued by the tour of the Camden County jail,” noted Fisher.
The week culminated in the Junior Police Academy’s graduation in the room where township council holds meetings. The police have offered the intense and enriching program for more than a decade.
