On Friday, July 12, 2019, at 7 p.m., 20 explorers from nine Central Texas law enforcement agencies will graduate from their four-week academy. The academy, which was held at the Roy Butler Police Training Academy, included daily physical training, instruction in crisis intervention, narcotics, ethics and professionalism, and the penal code (among other law enforcement-related topics).

The goal of the Explorer Academy is to teach participants leadership skills, discipline, police tactics, conduct roll play scenarios, improve physical fitness and to offer opportunities for personal development. The APD Explorer program is offered year-round at no cost to youth between the ages of 14 and 20. The program focuses on mentoring future leaders. Anyone who is interested in applying to the program may do so online.

Other agencies involved in the program include, Hays County Sheriff’s Office, Travis County Constables Pct. 2, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Georgetown Police Department and Leander Police Department.