Washoe school police present junior cadet program; students describe career pathways and community service

Washoe County School District presented its school police junior cadet program on May 27, showcasing a multi-year pathway for students to gain leadership, emergency-response and law-enforcement skills.

Chief Tracy Moore introduced the program and said it builds leadership and community connections while giving students hands-on exposure to law-enforcement careers. ‘‘These students…explore an opportunity in law enforcement as a career. They develop leadership skills…and it's a good opportunity for them to give back to our community,’’ Moore said.

Officer C.J. Gomez and Detective Quentin Flurry described the program’s curriculum and supervision. Cadets highlighted practical training modules including radio communications and EVOC driving, first aid and bleeding-control certification (through a partnership with the district health coordinator), range safety and scenario training. The school police pilot also includes community service and fundraising; cadets raised roughly $17,000 to travel to National Police Week in Washington, D.C.

Student testimony: several cadets told trustees the program changed how they see themselves and their futures. Narvinder Singh Arnold (North Valleys High School) said, “This program has truly changed my life. It is not just a class, it is a launchpad,” describing improved public-speaking skills, radio proficiency and a role in locating a vehicle after a hit-and-run. Olivia Keller (Bonney Ranch High School) read an essay about an officer she researched at the national memorial and described the trip as a “life-changing” experience. Arlette Luna Gonzales (Huck High School) and other cadets described the program as “another family” and noted participation in community events including parades and memorial vigils.

Trustees and the superintendent praised the program’s community reach and viewed it as a recruitment pipeline. A number of trustees said the cadet experience demonstrated the value of early exposure and mentorship; one trustee called it an example of the district’s “Grow Your Own” workforce strategy.

Program details and access: the junior cadet curriculum was described as a successor to a police explorers program that has operated for nearly 20 years; completion provides extended studies credit (which can count toward a diploma), and the district encourages interested students to contact counselors or visit the WCSD Police Department website for application information. Chief Moore and staff said they are reviewing applications for next year’s class.

Ending: trustees took a photo with cadets and officers and commended the staff for building trust between students and law enforcement. The presentation was informational only; no board action was required.