OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) - After five days of training, a special academy hosted by Omaha police graduates Friday.
To earn the badge, the class must demonstrate commitment, strength and perseverance.
And – be a child, preferably between the ages of six and 12 if you want to qualify for Kids Omaha Police Academy.
Jackson Tweedy, 6, says he’s learning how to be strong while Alice Harrington explains why KOP Academy is “awesome.”
“I honestly love KOP Academy because we do all of these obstacle courses,” she says during an agility test held in the Salvation Army Kroc Center’s gymnasium.
For five days, roughly 60 kids learned about personal development, such as how to be grateful, honest and respectful, which are part of a seven-point creed.
The weeklong camp at the Kroc center, also hosted by Camp Kroc, exposes children to police scenarios, class instructions and demonstrations while making the community stronger, according to Ofcr. Ruteena Alcantara.
"We want to make sure we build a good rapport, even with kids because that way they know they can trust us, come to us for help and everything else,” says Alcantara.
After working hard and having fun, they'll graduate with an accessory fitted to compliment their badge – their blue hats.
CUTENESS ALERT! Kids Omaha Police Academy is almost over for the week. Told about 65 kiddos will graduate today @3NewsNowOmaha pic.twitter.com/sJ1eRs2iej
— Shawnte Passmore (@ShawntePassmore) July 14, 2017
