A group of fifth- and sixth-graders are now the graduates of a youth law enforcement academy with Whitehall Township Police Department.

“The purpose of the youth academy is to give the students an insight into police work and the agencies that assist the police department,” Officer Matthew Christman said. “The youth academy is also aimed at building lifelong positive relationships between police officers and students.”

The inaugural event was held June 20-24 and was provided at no cost to families of the cadets. The academy program is open to Whitehall Township students and residents.

“Over 80 fifth- and sixth-graders registered for this exciting opportunity, and 32 were selected,” Christman said.

During the event, students were involved with activities such as crime scene processing, canine demonstrations, the criminal justice system and more.

On the last day, a graduation ceremony was held at Whitehall High School. One participant was not able to attend the graduation due to illness, so 31 were present for the ceremony.

Christman conveyed the police department was very excited to provide this opportunity for students.

“I absolutely believe the students enjoyed the youth academy. This was evident by the intelligent questions they had throughout the week and the way they stepped up to all the tasks we put before them,” Christman said. “We received a lot of positive feedback. When I asked them what they liked the most about the academy, many students said, ‘Everything,’ but they especially enjoyed seeing the police dogs and police horses.

“Our ultimate goal was to build positive relationships with the students that can last a lifetime,” Christman added. “I truly believe we accomplished that.”