As guardians of this beautiful city, SAPD officers within the SAFFE Unit have provided a program to help train the future protectors of San Antonio. Introducing the San Antonio Police Explorer Program. The Explorers program gives young adults interested in law enforcement an in-depth look at what the job entails in order to begin their training early.
Over the course of several months, Explorers will build character, develop leadership skills, and promote good citizenship through various lessons and exercises. Officers at each of the six substations across San Antonio act as mentors as they introduce cadets to life as a police officer.
To be an SAPD Explorer, you must:
- Be between the ages of 14 and 21
- Have completed the 8th grade
- Be in good health
- Pass a background check
- Pass a physical fitness test
- Complete Basic Explorer Training
- Attend meetings once a week, Tuesday or Wednesday from 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Upon signing up, applicants will attend four consecutive meetings at the nearest substation, or post, and pass a physical fitness test to be qualified for the Explorer program. At that point, a review board will be conducted and the post advisors will evaluate the applicant for acceptance into the program.
Once accepted, Explorers will continue to attend weekly meetings at their post consisting of some form of fitness training, team building, a law enforcement based curriculum, and community service.
As advisors and mentors, officers encourage Explorers to be their very best and give their very best, not only as future protectors of San Antonio, but as good citizens overall. The following quote from the South side post shows just that:
“When you step into the substation on your first day you will know you’ve taken the right step in becoming something bigger than yourself and there will be no looking back. It’s a family atmosphere and we’re extremely proud of it.”
If you are interested in obtaining invaluable life skills, improving your self-confidence, and preparing for a career in law enforcement, please visit sapdexplorers.com for more information or to fill out an application.
San Antonio Substations:
- North: 13030 Jones Maltsberger, San Antonio, TX 78247
- Northwest: 5020 Prue Rd., San Antonio, TX 78240
- West: 7000 Culebra, San Antonio, TX 78238
- South: 711 W. Mayfield, San Antonio, TX 78211
- East: 3635 E. Houston, San Antonio, TX 78219
- Central: 515 S. Frio, San Antonio, TX 78207
(Source: SAPDExplorers.com)