Applications available for the Hoboken Junior Police Academy 2026

The Hoboken Police Department is now accepting applications for its 2026 Junior Police Academy, a free, week-long summer program that gives local youth an inside look at law enforcement while building leadership skills and advancing community connections.

The academy will run from Monday, July 13, through Friday, July 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Stevens Institute of Technology. The program is open to Hoboken residents ages 10 to 15 and is offered at no cost to families. 30 applicants will be selected at random. It is co-sponsored by the Hoboken Police Department and the Hudson County Municipal Alliance.

Throughout the week, cadets will take part in classroom lessons, physical fitness training, and hands-on activities designed to introduce them to law enforcement, emergency services, and the criminal justice system. The program emphasizes teamwork, confidence-building, leadership, and positive engagement with law enforcement. Participants will work with Hoboken Police Officers, as well as partner agencies including Stevens Institute of Technology Police, New Jersey State Police, the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office, and more. Students will also participate in field trips, and lunch will be provided each day.

"The academy is a highlight for our entire department each year because it's about more than just showing what we do; it's about building confidence, developing trust, and strengthening relationships," said Chief Steven Aguiar. "This program gives young residents the opportunity to learn about law enforcement, while also learning about themselves, face new challenges, and seeing firsthand what it means to serve their community. We can't wait to meet this year's class!"

Applications must be submitted by Friday, June 5, and can be dropped off at Hoboken Police Headquarters, 106 Hudson St., or emailed to Sgt. Anthony Fesken at [email protected] or Police Officer Shelby Seickendick at [email protected]. For more information and to download the application, visit https://hobokenpdnj.gov/junior-police-academy/.