The Collierville Police Department wrapped up their second annual Police Explorers Academy with a virtual graduation ceremony honoring the 2020 class of nine Explorers.
“I’m proud of you for stepping out and wanting to be a leader,” said Police Chief Dale Lane to the graduating class. “We want you to be world changers. And now that you are on our team, we’re going to encourage you and support you along the way.”
Along with encouraging words from Collierville Police Officers at the ceremony, awards were given to Explorers for physical agility, academic achievement, perfect attendance, and the highest honor, overall excellence in every category. Aliyah Nevels won the Explorer Excellence award, selected by the Collierville Police advisors involved in the Explorer program.
Law Enforcement Explorer Programs allow young people aged 14-20 to learn about and participate in the day to day workings of their local law enforcement agencies. Attendees learn about report writing, physical training, and various police divisions such as patrol, criminal investigations, and crisis intervention.
They also train at the firing range with simunitions (non-lethal ammunition) and learn safety rules for using firearms. The Collierville Police Department has had their Explorer Post since 1987, and it has produced police officers who serve the community today including Captain Ken Rowlett, Lieutenants Josh Wheeler and Chris Rossie, and Dispatcher Alex Javer. The first Collierville Police Explorer Academy started in the summer of 2019.
Congratulations to the Collierville Police Explorers for choosing to spend their summer exploring a career path that will benefit their communities in the future.
PICTURED:
- The 2020 Collierville Police Explorers (L-R) Joseph Barr, Parker Phillips, Hartford Hoppenjan, Lauren Neal, Victor Reinhardt, Katelyn Cannon, Tyler Weems, Aliyah Nevels, and Chandler Greer.)
