A group of high school students are in Salina this week experiencing what it takes to be a state trooper. They
are undergoing training and learning about law enforcement careers at the Cadet Law Enforcement Academy.

The goal is to give young men and women an opportunity to learn more about what law enforcement jobs entail, including the duties, training, and discipline that go along with a career in the field. It teaches high school students a great deal about leadership, and about coming together as a team.

The students are coached by KHP troopers, who encourage the students, and help them develop. College students who have attended the KHP Collegiate Law program will help mentor the high school students during the program.

Throughout the week, cadets have a rigorous schedule to follow that is very similar to that of actual recruit troopers. The students experience a variety of classroom instruction and the real-world activities a trooper faces. Cadets go to the firing range, practice pursuit driving, fly with the Patrol’s pilots in agency airplanes, and practice car stop scenarios. Physical training and attention to detail are both emphasized throughout the duration of their academy experience.

The Cadet Law Enforcement Academy began at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in Salina this week on Sunday, and goes through Friday.