Maricopa’s Teen Academy Offers Immersive Experience in Law Enforcement

Published on July 10, 2025

A weeklong summer academy is giving Maricopa teens a unique look inside law enforcement—and a chance to try on the badge for themselves.

The Teen Police Academy, hosted by the Maricopa Police Department, launched in July 2020. Since then, it has grown into a hands-on, immersive program where students get to experience life as an officer.

“It’s designed right after the police academy,” said Officer Brown, who helped bring the program to Maricopa. “They start to learn to understand the laws, how a normal patrol officer prepares for work, and the tactics we use.”

Over the course of a week, participants get a crash course in everything from fingerprinting and shoe casting to crime scene investigation and building searches.

Hayley Braverman, a three-time participant, highlighted a mock hostage drill. “You really feel like your life is on the line — they get you moving,” she said. “People are screaming, and it’s just so invaluable. You get to learn all these things you’d never have the chance to do as a teenager anywhere else.” She also valued the social growth: “This really makes you get out of your shell. You learn how to talk to people you’ve never met and probably will never meet again. You build personal connections and better social skills.”

Landon Stowe, eyeing a law enforcement career, said the academy reinforced his goals. “I actually want to have a career in law enforcement,” he said. “I figured it was a great way to get my foot in the door and meet people in the field.” He added, “The things we’ve learned — it’s all been really great. And I think the experience in and of itself is what I’m going to be taking away from this.”

Interested in More? Consider the Maricopa Police Cadet Program

The Maricopa Police Cadet Program is open to high school students age 14 and up. Cadets meet Thursdays (excluding holidays) for hands-on training, law education, and leadership development with Maricopa police officers. Activities include classroom learning, physical training, and real-life police scenarios.

The program is currently full, but you can join the waiting list by completing the interest form here.