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Junior Cadet Program
CONTACT INFORMATION
School Resource Officers
School Resources Officers can help provide more information about this program. Find your SRO by clicking below.WHAT IS THE JUNIOR CADET PROGRAM?
Formerly known as the Police Explorer Program, the Prince William County Police Department's Junior Cadet Program is overseen by School Resource Officers and provides youth with knowledge of the law enforcement function in their community, while exposing them to day-to-day police operations. Involvement in this program establishes an awareness of the complexities of police service. Program attendees are encouraged to pursue a position as a police cadet following graduation, and then eventually become a police officer.
- To apply, simply fill-out the Junior Cadet Program Application and send the completed form to the email below. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.
*Note: Please email completed applications to Emily Baker (Retain a personal copy for your record.)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Expand all- What is the Junior Cadet Program?
The Junior Cadet Program is sponsored by the Prince William County Police Department and is a career education program encouraging participation from young women and men who are interested in the law enforcement field.
The Junior Cadet Program serves as an introduction to all phases of law enforcement and provides a unique experience for youth who may wish to pursue a career in the field with the hopes graduates will join our Cadet Program and one day, become a Police Officer.
The Junior Cadet Program promotes character building, leadership development, and an appreciation for community service.
- What are the requirements to be a Junior Cadet?
- Be a student between 14 years of age and entering ninth grade through 19 years of age and in the twelfth grade.
- Maintain a 2.0 minimum cumulative grade point average.
- Successfully complete a background investigation.
- Be in good standing within the community.
- Have parental approval if under 18 years of age.
- Reside in Prince William County and be currently enrolled in school.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the program has reached a capacity of 40 Junior Cadets or the December 1 cut-off, whichever comes first. Once capacity has been reached, applications will be processed as openings become available. All applications submitted after December 1 will be held until the following school year.
- What are the expectations of a Junior Cadet?
Junior Cadets are expected to attend all regularly scheduled meetings which are held two Wednesdays a month. Junior Cadets also take part in a variety of additional activities to promote community engagement and the program which can occur over weekends. Junior Cadets receive training on a variety of topics that include, but are not limited to the following:
- Department History
- Criminal & Traffic Law
- Criminal & Crash Investigation
- Defensive Tactics
- Emergency Communications (9-1-1)
Successful applicants may be eligible for the ride-along program once they have reached the age of 18. Please refer to the ride-along program page for more details.
- How much does it cost to be a Junior Cadet?
The Prince William County Police Department covers the cost of dues. All are encouraged to apply.
For more information, contact your School Resource Officer or the Youth Services Bureau by calling (703) 792-5149 or email.