Maple Grove Hosts Police Teen Academy
Police in Maple Grove are spending the week inspiring the next generation of law enforcement.
Nearly 30 students signed up for the Maple Grove Police Department’s Teen Academy.
“I think it’s important for them to really see and learn from us. You know, not what they see on TV and things like that,” said officer Laurel Slawson of the Maple Grove Police Department. “To talk to a real officer, ask us any question they want, we’ve told them ask any question you want, we’re willing to answer it. And to really dig and know what this job is about. And it’s a great profession.”
The teens spent the week learning more about what it takes to serve and protect.
Topics range from crime scene investigations, K-9 demonstrations, crisis negotiations, and traffic stops.
The goal is to give the teens a better understanding of what police do and spark interest in a law enforcement career.
“Oh, it’s been great. I love the officers here,” said Jacob Olson, a teen from Maple Grove. “I’ve learned so much. I’ve taken in a lot of stuff that I will never forget, and it’s just sweet to have one-on-one opportunities to talk with the cops, and normally you don’t really get to do that.”
The five-day course wraps up on June 27. Maple Grove police plan to hold another Teen Academy next June.
Jacob Olson of Maple Grove is one of the nearly 30 students who signed up for the Maple Grove Police Department’s Teen Academy.
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