Explorers Program Helps Flucos Learn the Law

Police officers and other law enforcers have to go through dangerous situations every single day.

So, it’s extremely important to prepare youths for a future in the police force, or to just teach skills that can help anyone in a tough situation.

That’s where the Law Enforcement Explorers Program comes in. The program was started at FCHS by School Resource Officer Lacorie Steppe.

“The program offers young adults a personal awareness of the criminal justice system through training, practical experiences, competition and other activities,” said Steppe. “Additionally, the program promotes personal growth through character development, respect for the rule of law, physical fitness, good citizenship, and patriotism.”

There are plenty of obvious benefits to the program, but why was it started? Steppe said “The purpose is to provide experiences to help young people mature and become responsible and caring adults, and to provide experiences to help young people learn about the different specialties in the law enforcement field.”

The program has many activities, including exposure to various criminal justice careers, positive interactions with law enforcement officials, hands-on activities including community service, ride-alongs on police cruisers, training programs, conferences and competitions, and pistol shooting championships.

Participation in the program can also directly help students prepare for college.

“You receive comprehensive career focused training that in many cases qualifies for academic credit,” said Steppe “and preparation for career related college degree programs, and other advanced education opportunities.”

Joining is simple. There’s an annual participation fee of $24, although scholarships are available if needed. A Youth Participation Form is also required, which you can find in Officer Steppe’s office across from the main gym. You also need to determine which law enforcement career or careers you’re interested in, and attend the meetings.

There are some additional requirements to join due to the sensitive nature of law enforcement these include a successful background check, an oral interview, and a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

You must be in 9th-12th grade to be part of the Explorers Program, although Steppe said 8th graders may still attend meetings. Meetings will be held either Tuesdays or Thursdays after school.

To find more information on the program, visit the website at http://www.exploring.org/law-enforcement/ Or contact Officer Steppe via email at [email protected], or call 434-510-1916