Swansea, SC - Lynne Fallaw, Dual Enrollment Criminal Justice professor, planned a trip to the SC Criminal Justice Academy for her students Thursday, November 7, 2019. Eleven Swansea High School (SHS) students attended. The day included a guided tour through the firing range, scenario stations, and defensive driving course, and a visit through the Law Enforcement Hall of Fame. The tour began on the firing range where the students watched a group of law enforcement officers working toward recertification. At the conclusion they were able to get closer to see the targets. The instructor shared information about the training needed to become competent in shooting, and how to add on additional credentials.
The next area of the tour was a cluster of houses being used for law enforcement scenarios. The group was excited to sit inside and watch as students in the academy dealt with different situations. Instructors were only steps away to give feedback as needed while teaching in real time. A most exciting part of the day was the driving course. The Criminal Justice Academy driving instructors allowed the SHS students to ride along the course with them. The students experienced the weaving through cones, going off road, and braking techniques. In order to show competence, CJA students have to successfully complete the course in under 5 seconds.
Throughout the day, the Swansea High School students were given a broad insight into the career of law enforcement officer. For some it reinforced their decision to enter that field, some were left intrigued by what they saw, and others decided that it was not something they could see themselves doing on a daily basis. Overall, everyone enjoyed the day and discovered a newfound respect for those in criminal justice jobs.
