Sheriff's Deputies are committed to keeping our children safe. We also want our youngsters to be our partners in building safer schools and communities.
That's why the San Marcos Sheriff's Station offers a free program called the Junior Deputy Academy. This is a ten-week class for children 8 to 15 years old. They meet for three hours once a week.
Today, children got a special visit from Sheriff's ASTREA Pilots who fly patrol and firefighting helicopters for the department. They answered questions about the aircraft and their duties in the air to support deputies on the ground.
The Junior Deputy Academy teaches children about discipline, teamwork, friendship, respect, and trust in themselves, as well as law enforcement. This program started at the Vista Sheriff's Station five years ago. Children learn about personal safety, reporting suspicious activity, avoiding alcohol, drugs and gangs, internet safety, evidence collection, teen dating violence, bullying, first aid, and positive life choices. Participants also learn how deputies work every day to keep them and their families safe. They get a visit from specialized units of the Sheriff's Department such as ASTREA, K-9 and Motor. After each session, the class participates in physical fitness and training drills.
This year, the San Marcos Boys and Girls Club and the City of San Marcos are paying for the three academies. 41 children in this academy are members of the Boys and Girls Club. Two more academies will be held in June and September. Parents of middle school students who live in San Marcos can check with their principal about enrolling in the next academy.
Graduation for this Junior Deputy Academy is set for Thursday, March 19th.
