FCPD Public Safety Cadet Program Lays Foundation for Success

Fairfax, VA- The FCPD is proud to provide an abundance of opportunities to support and guide our youth on the pathway to success in Fairfax County. The Public Safety Cadet program provides leadership, ethics, and career preparation training to young women and men with an interest in a career in law enforcement. Participating in the cadet program provides invaluable experience, mentorship, and a strong foundation for a rewarding and prosperous future.

Whether it is to build a resume, develop leadership skills, or explore a career, being a Public Safety Cadet many great opportunities. Cadets get an inside look at the criminal justice system, basic law enforcement training, and hands-on experience through practical exercises with sworn FCPD officers who serve as mentors along the way. The FCPD is proud to have officers who are graduates of this exceptional program, which provides a direct pathway to becoming a sworn officer.

“Being a part of the Public Safety Cadet program felt like being in a family. It taught me not only how to be an officer, but how to be the best person I can be to myself and others. My favorite parts of the program were the scenario-based practicals, community events, and having guest speakers talk about the specialty units with the FCPD. After almost four years with the program, I went to Northern Virginia Community College and then applied for a sworn officer position with the FCPD. I have always wanted to work for FCPD, but being a part of the Public Safety Cadet program and working with such amazing officers made me want to pursue this profession even more.” 

-Police Officer Alexander Battani

At the beginning of the FCPS school year, each Public Safety Cadet unit hosts a “First Nighter” informational meeting for future applicants. Family members and guardians are welcome to attend. These events are a great opportunity to learn more about the program, ask questions, to meet the cadets and officers in the unit, and to get an application.

Below is more information about the “First Nighter” events:

Unit 1742 “First Nighter”Unit 505 “First Nighter”Unit 2252 “First Nighter”
*Event Already Occurred* Please attend the 505 or 2252 “First Nighter” to learn more.Monday, September 11th
7:00pm
Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr, Annandale, VA 22003
Monday, September 18th
7:00pm
West Potomac High School 6500 Quander Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307  

To learn more about the requirements and application process, or if you are unable to attend the “First Nighter” events, please visit the Public Safety Cadet website at www.FCPDPSC.org for more information.

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