~ The Springfield Police Department and the Springfield Fire Department, in collaboration with the Springfield Westside Optimist Club, have announced that applications are now open for the fifth annual Junior Police & Fire Academy. The day-long academy will take place on Saturday, June 22, 2019, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Springfield Regional Police and Fire Training Center located at 2620 W. Battlefield Rd.

The Junior Police & Fire Academy is open to youth aged 10 to 13 and aims to educate them about the roles and responsibilities of police officers and firefighters. The day's activities will include classes on responding to calls for service, a tour of the Special Response Team equipment, a K-9 demonstration, search and rescue techniques, spraying a fire hose, and a bomb squad demonstration. The academy will conclude with a graduation ceremony where participants will receive certificates and medals.

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Thanks to the support of the Springfield Police Department, the Springfield Fire Department, and the Springfield Westside Optimist Club as well as local businesses such as Don Wessel Honda, Incredible Pizza, Walmart, Trifecta Restoration, ActNow promotions for providing shirts and BJ's Trophy Shop for supplying medals; this event has been made possible.

Aaron Lesure of the Springfield West Side Optimist Club expressed his excitement about partnering with both departments for their fifth annual Junior Police & Fire Academy. He stated that this program would provide local youth with an opportunity to gain insight into what it takes to be a police officer or firefighter through hands-on experiences.

The Springfield Westside Optimist Club is a non-profit organization that has been serving children in Springfield and the Ozarks since 1958. Their mission is "Bringing out the Best in Kids" by providing support through various programs and activities that promote character building, self-confidence, and positive contributions to their communities.

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Police Chief Paul Williams shared his enthusiasm for this year's academy, stating that it allows them to connect with the youth in their community and answer any questions they may have about law enforcement. He hopes that this experience will not only be educational but also spark an interest in becoming a future police recruit.

Fire Chief David Pennington also expressed his excitement for the academy, stating that it provides an opportunity for young participants to not only learn about being a firefighter but also experience it firsthand. He believes that this event will have a positive impact on the lives of these young individuals.

Applications for the Junior Police & Fire Academy are now open and can be found on the Springfield Police Department's website. The deadline to apply is June 1st, and there are only 25 spots available. This is a great opportunity for youth to gain insight into the daily lives of police officers and firefighters while also building positive relationships with their local law enforcement and fire departments.

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