By: Richard L. Smith
The Summit Police Department has released details for its 2026 Youth Academy, offering two weeklong summer sessions for area students interested in learning more about law enforcement.
According to information provided by department officials, the program will run July 20–24 and July 27–31, with daily sessions held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The academy is open to students entering grades 6 through 9 in the upcoming school year, with applicants required to be no older than 14 as of July 20.
Now entering its 21st year, the Youth Academy gives participants a hands-on look at the responsibilities of police officers.
Modeled after a traditional police academy, cadets take part in structured physical training, drill exercises, introductory criminal investigation lessons, patrol procedures, and evidence collection practices.
Participants will also visit the Union County Police Academy and observe demonstrations from specialized units, including the Union County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit, the Union County S.W.A.T. Team, and the Union County Bomb Squad.
Cadets receive an official Youth Academy uniform and, upon successful completion, are honored during a graduation ceremony where they are awarded a certificate and commemorative academy patch.
Applications will be accepted from March 2 through April 1 and are available online or in person at Summit City Hall, 512 Springfield Avenue. 
Admission is granted on a rolling basis, with priority given to first-time applicants who reside in Summit. A limited number of scholarships are available for families facing financial hardship.
Selected participants will be notified by April 15. A $125 tuition payment must be submitted by April 17 to secure placement in the program.