BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) — The Beckley Police Department has officially announced the return of its 2025 Junior Police and Leadership Academy (JPA) — a unique opportunity aimed at building stronger connections between local youth and law enforcement through education and engagement.
Designed for students ages 11 to 14, the week-long program offers a behind-the-scenes look into the daily operations of the Beckley Police Department. Far from a training course, the academy is an interactive and informational experiencecreated to foster leadership and mutual understanding.
Participants will get firsthand exposure to various police units, learn about officer responsibilities, and explore the structure of the department — all while developing a deeper appreciation for the role of law enforcement in their community. The program is built on the idea that informed youth become empowered leaders in their schools and neighborhoods.
Two sessions will be offered this summer:
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Session 1: Monday, June 23 – Thursday, June 26, 2025
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Session 2: Monday, July 7 – Thursday, July 10, 2025
Each session runs daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Class size is limited to 21 students per session. Eligible applicants include 6th to 8th graders currently enrolled in BEST and Park Middle Schools, and 5th graders from their feeder elementary schools.
Applications can be downloaded online at beckley.org/police-department/jpa/application, picked up at the Beckley Police Department Records Division, or obtained directly from Park and Beckley-Stratton Middle Schools.
The Beckley Police Department encourages interested students and families to apply early, as spots are limited and expected to fill quickly.
