Police Academy

Law enforcement of the future

A new opportunity has recently opened up for Burrell students where they are able to learn from actual police at the local station. When asked what the courses teaches, Freshman Maddy Seeley said, “It’s evolving around the police works.” After further questioning, I’ve learned that the courses have taught students how the station runs, self defense, and identification of illegal substances. They were taught about what jobs people have at the station, and how it works with other locations to keep the town safe. Joining these courses can help anyone considering working in law, or help someone who wants/needs law credits. 

Out of the three people I’ve interviewed, they all vouched for the fact that the information they’re learning is interesting and fun. But, they also gave reasons to how this information could help in the future. “It could help us protect ourselves. And identify drugs,” Will York stated. For self defense, they were shown how to defend themselves against someone taller than them. This can be important because even though many people aren’t taught self defense, you never know when you need it. Even one short lesson could save yours or another's life. 

And the lesson about illegal substances, which all three praised as their favorite, was an interactive lesson that gave them information on how to identify drugs. Drugs are a real issue, and it’s good to know what to look out for so you can avoid them. But there’s still more upcoming classes. One being about the K-9s and how they help the police force. One dog is named Buck, which York specifically asked to be mentioned. Buck is the dog that Burrell helped to purchase with fundraising last year.

These statements above should provide plenty reason for you to join. Mrs. Pagnotta is hoping to spread more information on what they do. She wants to raise people’s interest, and get some new faces to join. So, if you are interested, don’t miss next years’ courses! The lessons being taught can help in every day life. As Emma Bingman said, “It’s useful.” Although simple words, they’re true. Even if you’re not looking to do anything with law enforcement when you’re older, this information is still useful and worth looking into.