Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN — Students in the Public Safety Academy at Choffin Career and Technical Center will get even more hands-on learning opportunities as the academy now has a fully equipped police cruiser.

The police cruiser was purchased to upgrade the academy’s training resources and will allow students to gain real-world, hands-on experience as they prepare to become the Valley’s next generation of law enforcement and public safety professionals, according to a news release from the center.

With the cruiser, students will be able to simulate routine traffic stops, practice safe vehicle operations and learn standard police protocols in a safe and controlled environment.

“This is another step forward in our mission to give Choffin students access to the tools and experiences that truly prepare them for successful futures,” said Dr. Mike Saville, director of Choffin Career & Technical Center. “By investing in resources like the police cruiser, we’re equipping our students with confidence and skills they can take directly into the workforce or continue to build on through higher education.”

The new police cruiser joins the center’s growing fleet of emergency vehicles, which includes a police car, working ambulance and fire truck. Together, they support the Public Safety Academy’s comprehensive instruction in criminal justice, fire, emergency medical services (EMS), telecommunications (911 dispatch), and drone technology.

Students in the academy have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials through programming that prepares them for advanced certification / further education and / or immediate employment. Students are trained through hands-on experiences such as working alongside law enforcement, fire and EMT professionals.