LYNN — The police department’s student academy is returning this summer for the first time since 2017, making it the 11th class since its inception in 2004.
The academy — which is open to all Lynn residents ages 13 to 18, with an interest in law enforcement — will be offered two times, in three-week sessions from July 11 to July 28, and again from Aug. 1 to Aug. 18.
The sessions will take place Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Breakfast and lunch will be provided by the Lynn Public Schools.
During this student academy, law enforcement professionals will teach a law related curriculum; there will be hands-on training in police fields; CPR certification; visits to law enforcement and court facilities; and educational and physical challenges in a team atmosphere.
Police Lt. Tim Donovan, who is helping run the academy, said he thinks this is an important opportunity because it gives students an inside look at how the police department operates, while giving police officers and the youth an opportunity to interact and help foster positive relationships.
“We run many youth initiatives in Lynn and I strongly believe in this program. The 300-plus students who have completed the program always speak highly of their experience,” Donovan said. “Currently, we have four past graduates of the student academy working in law enforcement. It is definitely a great opportunity for someone who has an interest in the profession to get a glimpse of what it is like to be a police officer.”
The academy has been put on hold since 2017 due to staffing issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, but Donovan said it has been one of his goals to bring the program back since he took over Youth Services. He is running the academy with Detective Jenn Cash and School Resource Officers Mark Lee and Manny Gasca.
The academy is also supported by Police Chief Chris Reddy and the Superintendent of Lynn Schools, Dr. Patrick Tutwiler.
Applications for the student academy can be picked up — and dropped off once filled out — at the police station or in the guidance offices at the city’s middle and high schools.
Applications are due by June 20.
Allysha Dunnigan can be reached at [email protected].
