Applications Open for Lakeland's Free High School Police Academy Summer Camp

Applications are now open for the Lakeland Police Department’s annual summer High School Police Academy.

The free, weeklong camp is for teens who are interested in a career in law enforcement. The hands-on, highly interactive program taught by LPD officers will enable students to see and experience what it’s like to work in law enforcement.

The camp will be held July 22–26 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lakeland Police Department Training Center. Topics include SWAT tactics, K-9 officers, crime scene analysis and traffic enforcement. Campers will learn defensive tactics and participate in physical training and team-building exercises.

A free lunch will be provided each day and participants will receive academy T-shirts.

Those interested:

Must be at least 16 years of age and going into the 11^th grade, 12th grade or have just graduated.
Have had no arrests.
Have had no out of school suspensions in the last year.
Maintain a “C” average or better.
Be willing to participate in all activities, both academic and physical.
Must be interested in a career in law enforcement.
Receive parental or legal guardian approval.

Space is limited. Those interested can apply online.

For additional information, call (863) 834-8991 or email Adrian.Rodriguez@Lakelandgov.net.

LPD spokesperson Stephanie Kerr said once they pass the law enforcement academy, new officers earn a starting salary of $59,272 annually.

The department also hosts a free two-week Summer Trades Academy for students in grades 9-12 to learn about construction and skilled trades, however, applications are already closed for the coming year, according to the city’s website.