Palo Alto, CA -- The Palo Alto Police Department is inviting high school students to participate in the first Student Police Academy. The purpose of this program is to acquaint young people with the objectives of the police in our community, and allow students to gain knowledge regarding law enforcement. In doing so, they will become active allies in the effort to enhance the safety and quality of their neighborhoods and school.

The first Student Police Academy is scheduled to begin February 7, 2007 and will be held every Wednesday from 4 pm to 6 pm. The academy graduation is scheduled for May 3, 2007. We are currently accepting applications for high school students interested in taking part in this 13-week program. The program will give participants an overview of critical elements of policing and the fundamentals of a police organization. Subjects will include officer/personal safety, investigations, traffic enforcement, forensics, crime scene investigations and how to prepare for a career in law enforcement. All classes will be taught by police officers and law enforcement personnel.

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Must attend high school
• No felony convictions
• No misdemeanor convictions within one year of application
• Acceptance into Student Police Academy is based upon completion of a background check and an interview
• 2.0 grade point average or higher
• Acceptable school attendance
• One letter of recommendation
• Parental consent

Any high school students interested in participating are invited to visit www.papd.org to download an application. Space is limited, so police recommend the students get their applications in early!

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