The Springfield Jr Police Academy was established in summer of 2014. It is a week long program for recruits between the ages of 11 & 14. This week of education promotes Leadership, discipline, integrity, and pride. The academy staff, Officer Ryan Westover, Officer Frank Cunha, Corporal Danielle Kahora and Officer / Drill Instructor John Laurencelle has developed a jammed packed week showing the many aspects of law enforcement. These classes include Drill and ceremony, physical fitness assessments, presentations on Police Patrol Functions, Investigations by the Springfield Police Detective Bureau, and the Police interaction with the Springfield Fire Department and First Aid Squad. The program also gains assistance from the Union County K-9, SWAT Team, Bomb Squad and the New Jersey State Police North Star helicopter. Halfway thru the week, the recruits take a bus trip to the John H Stamler Police Academy to witness a day in the life of a Police recruit. At the academy, they honor Union County Police Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The recruits are required to write a small note card explaining each officer on the memorial.  

Officer Ryan Westover said of the academy, "Each year the program has become bigger and always ends a huge success. The future of our community is the children and promoting a strong bond between the community and the Springfield Police Department is one of our main missions."

Look forward to applications for the 2018 class towards the end of the school year. This could be a once in a lifetime week for your child.

Photos by the Patriot Times