By: Nicole Acker

The Police Department is now accepting applications for the Menlo Park Youth Community Police Academy, which will be held on Saturdays starting Sept. 16 - Oct. 21, 2017. All youth in grades 8-12 between the ages of 13 and 18 years old are encouraged to take part in an interactive program that spans over six Saturdays. The youth community police academy will introduce participants to the inner workings of law enforcement and give an overview of police operations and structure. The police department offers this academy in an educational setting with both indoor and outdoor activities which allows youth to ask questions openly and to discuss with police staff any concerns they have with law enforcement.

Participants can explore their curiosity and learn what laws are enforced and their importance. The curriculum covers topics such as forensics and crime scenes, traffic operations, patrol operations, K-9 demos, gangs, drugs, and first aid to name a few. The deadline to submit applications is Aug. 31.