Imagine returning to school after a long summer break and finding the Police Chief in your classroom.
This is exactly what happened this week at Martin High School when Arlington Police Chief Will Johnson arrived on campus. He welcomed students who are preparing this year to become the future of the Arlington Police Department.
Twenty-two seniors are now enrolled in the city 's new Hometown Recruiting Program, which is being sponsored by APD, Arlington ISD and UT-Arlington. High School seniors earn credit toward a criminal justice degree at UT-Arlington and participate in early police training. Upon earning their college degree from UT-Arlington, they can become a top recruit for the Arlington Police Department.
Seventeen-year-old Conner Vollmering, an APD Police Explorer for the past three years, said a career in law enforcement is his goal.
AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos joined Chief Johnson and Martin High School Principal Marlene Roddy on the first day of this program, which is believed to be a first of its kind in terms of collaboration among three of the region 's largest public institutions.
APD has a long-standing commitment to only hire police officers who have achieved their college degrees. This program builds upon early admissions efforts between UT-Arlington and Arlington ISD.
Chief Johnson said the Hometown Recruiting Program is an investment in the youth of Arlington.
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