APD Annual Reports - 2016 Annual Report | Page 27

Spotlight

HOMETOWN RECRUITING

High school students considering a career in policing can earn college credit that applies to a degree program meeting the entrance requirements to becoming an Arlington officer. Seeking out local homegrown students adds many opportunities to the department’ s overall recruitment strategy.
Officer Fred Kemp leads the department’ s efforts in this endeavor and builds upon existing early admissions efforts between The University of Texas at Arlington and Arlington ISD. Students attend various courses and specialized law enforcement training during their tenure in the program. Graduates from Hometown Recruiting are guaranteed to receive an interview with APD upon completion of their UT- Arlington degree. Participants also attended department recognition ceremonies and have preferential hiring considerations in upcoming police academy classes.

Mentoring Arlington Youth

Officers, educators, faith-based groups, and community members participate in a junior high mentoring program that focuses on building trust, enhancing basic life skills, and preparing young people for future success. Officers who serve as mentors conduct exciting, interactive workshops on developing leadership skills, team building, and career development. The journey is supported through positive interaction, problem-solving, and positive behavioral reinforcement through relationships between officers and teens.
The ultimate goal of the
Mentoring Arlington Youth program is to put at-risk teens on a pathway for educational success that will open up new opportunities as they progress through their school setting. Police legitimacy is achieved through partnership and collaboration.
Arlington, Texas Police Department

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