CLAYTON – The Clayton Police Department is connecting with the community by inviting residents to learn about police work. Through the ‘Not-So’ Teen Citizens Academy, 15 participants, ages 18 to 81, have a better understanding of what police work is all about, bringing the community closer to police officers.
Over two nights on October 8 and 10, and a full day on October 12, participants enjoyed a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on activities. The program featured role-playing scenarios, crime scene investigations, and even a chance to ride along in a Clayton Police Department vehicle.
“It’s a lot of work organizing such a program, but when it’s said and done… and you see the people interacting, you see that they are fascinated about police work and what we do… to me, it’s fulfilling,” said Police Officer Randolph Baity, the organizer of the “Not-So” Teen Citizens Academy.
“It definitely humanized law enforcement,” shared participant Michelle Worrell. “Often we just see them as someone who’s there to arrest and not someone who’s there to build relationships.”
Michelle attended the program with her 81-year-old mother, Eutrice Worrell, making it a family affair. “It’s been nice being with her,” said Michelle. “I told her the first day that we sat down – I was like we’re in class together. That was nice. It was a good experience to share with her.”
Michelle had to convince her mother to join, as Eutrice was initially hesitant. However, after completing the program, Eutrice expressed gratitude for participating, saying it’s never too late to learn.
“You get to understand more about the police and what they represent because most people are afraid of the law. They don’t know exactly what transpires,” said Eutrice.
The mother-daughter duo wasn’t alone in enjoying the experience. Jonni Meek and Jason Taylor, a married couple, also took part in the “Not-So” Teen Citizens Academy. Like Michelle and Eutrice, their favorite part was the role-playing scenarios.
“You have an idea of what their jobs are, but to be a part of that and experience the split-second decisions they make regularly was eye-opening,” said Jonni Meek.
For Jonni and Jason, this program was another “date night” experience. They have previously signed up for programs with both the Clayton Fire and Police Departments and found this a great way to spend quality time together while learning about their community. They encourage others to join future sessions.
“I would recommend it for anyone who walks, drives, interacts with the public, leaves their home, or might one day need help. It’s important to understand that the people coming to help you are human too, and these are the things they deal with,” said Jason.
Officer Baity added, “Anytime people say, ‘Hey, do it again. We want more,’ it means we’ve done our job and exceled at it.”
The “Not-So” Teen Citizens Academy is a new program inspired by the success of the annual Teen Academy. This initiative helps strengthen connections with residents by offering insight into the daily work of police officers.
“We had young teenagers excited for different reasons. They love things like the fire truck and K9s—anything visual,” said Officer Baity. “But with the ‘Not-So’ Teen Citizens Academy, these participants focused on the work itself. We covered topics like investigations and CSI, details they really wanted to know.”
The goals of the ‘Not-So’ Teen Citizens Academy are to help people understand what police officers do, improve communication between citizens and officers, and build better relationships through education.
“We’re people you can come to, talk to, and connect with. We’re just like you,” said Officer Baity.
Participant Jonni Meek echoed the sentiment: “They’re fathers and mothers, sisters and brothers, husbands and wives.
This is a great program, and I recommend it to anyone. I would also like to say to the Clayton Police Department, great job to offer this to the public.