GBPD Training Officer Jon Nejedlo talks to participants of the Teen Police Academy. June 19, 2024. PC: Fox 11 Online
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — 20 students at the 24th annual Teen Police Academy at the Green Bay Police Department received up close experience with officers to learn the ins and outs of police operations.
“This may be something that sparks an interest, and they may become a law enforcement officer down the road,” said GBPD Training officer Jon Nejedlo.
“I think them having the knowledge, a little bit of knowledge as to why things are done by law enforcement can also help promote the good community balance of, ‘Hey these officers aren’t doing this just because, but these are the reasons why,'” he added.
After going through an application process, students were given an inside look at the role of a police officer.
On Wednesday, students were taught firearm safety, and learned proper handcuffing and striking techniques used by the Green Bay Police Department.
High school senior Brody Fischer said, “I didn’t think we would actually shoot guns, that was very cool.” He aims to work in law enforcement after college.
“It just felt like a good idea to learn about the law enforcement units and different agencies, and I think it would help me decide if this was a good career path.” He continued. “So far it has given me a lot of good insight.”
Another participant, Preble High School freshman Hope Horkman, said she was drawn to the program through job searching.
“I think it’s just mainly the idea of getting to know what kind of jobs are out there, and in law enforcement, considering I’ve been told that people are looking for officers of any kind and every kind,” she said.
Students were given the opportunity to visit Brown County Jail and Wisconsin State Patrol, and will be going to visit the Brown County Sheriff’s Office Thursday.
The final day of the Green Bay Teen Police Academy program is June 20.
Applications for next year’s program open next spring.
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