For one exciting week each summer, a group of young Fair Oaks Ranch residents trade video games, swimming pools, and summer camps for police badges, patrol vehicles, and hands-on law enforcement training. Sergeant Hinojosa and her team of Officers Kabuss, De Hoyos, Crawford and Wright, manage and teach the students that attend the Junior Police Academy at the Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department. The Junior Police Academy gives children ages 8 to 10 an unforgettable opportunity to step into the shoes of a police officer while learning about the important role law enforcement plays in keeping communities safe.

Held June 8th to 12th at the Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department, the 2026 Junior Police Academy welcomed approximately 25 students for five days of learning, leadership development, and interactive experiences. The free program, which runs from 9am to 4pm each day, introduces young participants to the many responsibilities police officers face while emphasizing teamwork, integrity, and respect.

From the moment students arrive, they are immersed in the world of law enforcement. Through classroom instruction, demonstrations, and practical activities, participants learn about Texas law, traffic enforcement, patrol operations, emergency response, and community policing. Officers explain not only what they do on a daily basis, but also why their work is important to maintaining public safety and building trust within the community.

The academy goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. Throughout the week, students participate in teamwork challenges and real-world policing scenarios designed to strengthen communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and self-confidence. Whether working together to complete a task or learning how officers respond to different situations, the young cadets are encouraged to think critically and support one another.

One of the most valuable lessons taught during the academy is leadership. Each student has the opportunity to earn the title of Team Lead, a position awarded to participants who consistently demonstrate maturity, patience, honesty, respect, and leadership qualities. The role encourages students to lead by example while helping their fellow cadets succeed.

Throughout the week, students were treated to a variety of special demonstrations from local and regional law enforcement agencies and visits from city officials. Mayor Greg Maxton came by, as did members of the Boerne Police Department's SWAT Team. Boerne's K-9 Unit member Officer Reed and K-9 Warti demonstrated the capabilities of a working police dog, including a controlled apprehension exercise. Wearing protective gear, a volunteer officer played the role of a suspect while K-9 Warti showed students how police dogs are trained to safely stop dangerous individuals. The SAFEE Unit was also a hit when they performed a close flyby with the unit’s helicopter. Next, a Texas Game Warden shared information about wildlife conservation and natural resource protection. 

Many parents remarked on the positive impact the academy had on their children, noting increased maturity, responsibility, and enthusiasm for learning. The academy concluded with a graduation ceremony attended by family members, police officers, and Police Chief Todd Smith. For the students, graduation marked the end of an exciting week filled with unforgettable experiences. For many, it also sparked a new appreciation for law enforcement and the people who dedicate their careers to protecting others.