​Registration Now Open For Two Popular Pinellas Youth Programs

LARGO, FL -- The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is now accepting applications for the Sheriff's Teen Citizens Academy and Discovery Day.

The academy allows Pinellas County teens to take a behind-the-scenes look at the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. It will take place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 13 at various sheriff's office locations.

The academy will provide students an opportunity to work with Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputies while safely and effectively using a firearm, practicing defensive tactics, learning defensive driving, taking a tour of the Pinellas County Jail and more.

The free three-week, hands-on program is open to students between ages 14 and 18 and will be held on consecutive Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Applicants must be enrolled in an education program (including homeschool) and willing to participate in a criminal history screening and background check. Individuals with a criminal history are not eligible for this program. Limited spaces available.

The third Discovery Day program for children ages 8 to 13 who live in Pinellas County will take place Saturday, Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sheriff's Administration Building, 10750 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

The program will provide Pinellas County children the opportunity to take a hands-on, behind-the-scenes look at the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Participants will receive a welcome from Sheriff Bob Gualtieri before experiencing four education stations. These four stations will include PCSO vehicle displays, a modified version of the Physical Abilities Test (P.A.T.) course, a hands-on crime scene investigation experience, and the opportunity to test their skills on the Targeted Response Against Distracted Driving (T.R.A.D.D.) course.

For information, contact community programs manager Ricky Butler at (727) 582-6221 or rbutler@pcsonet.com.

Image via Pinellas Sheriff

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