Shooting with your buddies. Visiting crime scenes. Going on ride-alongs. All part of a normal day as a Police Explorer cadet.

Police Explorers is a program for high school students interested in gaining firsthand knowledge of law enforcement. The program builds confidence, discipline and social skills while practicing teamwork.

“You meet a great group of kids who are also interested in law enforcement,” Police Explorer alumni James Carpenter said. “It opens up a lot of opportunities for you.”

Cadets are issued official uniforms and attend outings with officers. They visit the gun range, go on ride-alongs with the officers, and learn how to apply handcuffs and find forensic evidence.

 “Police Explorers do everything the officers do,” Student Resource Officer Aaron George said. “It’s like a mini-police academy.”

Since the program started, more than 50,000 youths have joined and 2000 law enforcement posts have been established.  The Leander post, #641, meets every other Wednesday at the Leander Police Department. The program is open to all high school students in good academic standing. Applicants must have parental approval and pass a criminal background test. The next meeting will be Oct. 5 from 6-8 p.m.

“It is an excellent opportunity to work as a team and get an idea of what officers do,” George said. “Even if you don’t want to be an officer, it will show you what we do and clear up misconceptions.”

Students who are interested in joining the program can talk with Officer George in his office by the AP offices and pick up an application.