Summit Gears Up Future Officers In 2026 Youth Academy: See Registration Details

SUMMIT, NJ — The Summit Police Department will begin accepting applications on Monday for its 2026 Youth Academy.

The tradition is in its 21st season and will be available over two one-week sessions for children entering grades 6 through 9 the following school year.

All applicants must be no older than 14 as of July 20.

Kids will gain a look into the daily lives of a police officer in their community and undergo training and drills.

Attendees also get a look into how criminal cases are handled, from patrol all the way to evidence recovery.

Cadets will also visit the Union County Police Academy for demonstrations from the Union County Sheriff's K-9 Unit, Union County S.W.A.T. Team, and Bomb Squad.

Kids will get official uniforms and participate in a graduation ceremony where they will receive certificates of completion, an official Summit Police patch, and pictures from their time at the Academy.

The sessions will be held from July 20 through July 24 and July 27 through July 31 from 8 am to 3 p.m. each day.

Admission is accepted on a rolling basis, with Summit residents who are first-time residents at the top of the list. Former recruits and out-of-town children may be added to a waiting list.

The fee for the program is $125, and scholarships for those who are in need are available.

Applications are available online and at the Summit Police Department (512 Springfield Ave.) from March 2 through April 1.

Anyone with questions can visit the City of Summit's website, contact Officer David Kotiga at 908-598-2113 or dkotiga@spdnj.org or Administrative Assistant Lauren Karsen at 908-277-9473 and lkarsen@spdnj.org.

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