2024 – 2025
Legal & Protective Services
Joanne Romanelli, Academy B Administrator – Ext. 267
Course & Program of Studies
Statement of Purpose
The Legal and Protective Services program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, and related fields. Key elements of the program include:
- Legal Foundations: A strong foundation in legal principles, including criminal law, civil law, and constitutional law.
- Criminal Justice System: Understanding the structure and function of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
- Investigative Techniques: Developing skills in crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and report writing.
- Forensic Science: Learning about forensic science techniques, such as fingerprint analysis, DNA analysis, and toxicology.
- Emergency Preparedness: Training in disaster response, first aid, and CPR.
- Ethical Considerations: Understanding ethical principles and professional standards in law enforcement and criminal justice.
By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, this program equips students with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen career path.
Exploratory Program
The Freshman Exploratory program offers a fascinating introduction to the world of law and public safety. Students will gain a basic understanding of key concepts and skills, including:
- Traffic Law Enforcement: Learning about traffic laws, regulations, and enforcement procedures.
- Fingerprinting: Understanding the principles of fingerprint analysis and identification.
- Mock Trials: Participating in mock trials to learn about the legal process and courtroom procedures.
- Crime Scene Investigation: Gaining insights into crime scene investigation techniques, such as evidence collection and documentation.
This exploratory program will spark students’ interest in the field of law and public safety, preparing them for more advanced coursework in the coming years.
Freshman Program
Freshman Year in the Legal and Protective Services program offers a comprehensive introduction to the field. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including:
- Core Concepts:
- Criminal Justice System: Understanding the components of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
- Criminal Law: Learning about the elements of crimes, criminal procedures, and the rights of the accused.
- Constitutional Law: Exploring the principles of the U.S. Constitution and its impact on the legal system.
- Practical Skills:
- Fingerprinting: Mastering fingerprint techniques for identification purposes.
- Crime Scene Investigation: Learning basic crime scene investigation procedures, including evidence collection and documentation.
- First Aid and CPR: Acquiring essential first aid and CPR skills.
- Civic Engagement:
- American Democracy: Understanding the principles of American democracy, including citizenship, voting rights, and civic duties.
- Community Service: Participating in community service activities related to law and public safety.
By the end of the freshman year, students will have a solid foundation in the legal and public safety field and be prepared for more advanced coursework in the following years.
Sophomore Program
The Sophomore Legal & Protective Services course builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in the freshman year. Key areas of focus include:
- Legal Concepts and Terminology: Deepening understanding of legal terms, principles, and procedures.
- Critical Thinking and Analysis: Developing critical thinking skills to analyze legal cases and scenarios.
- Constitutional Law: Exploring the U.S. Constitution and its impact on the legal system.
- Criminal Law and Procedure: Understanding the elements of crimes, criminal investigations, and the court process.
- Professional Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as OSHA 10, First Aid/CPR and other relevant certifications.
- FEMA Training: Completing FEMA training courses to prepare for emergency response and disaster recovery.
Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, students will develop the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or other related fields.
Sophomore Related Class 1
Principles of Business
This sophomore-level course equips students with a strong foundation in business principles and entrepreneurship. Key areas of focus include:
Business Fundamentals:
- Entrepreneurship: Understanding the core concepts of entrepreneurship, including identifying opportunities, developing business plans, and managing risks.
- Business Operations: Learning about the fundamental aspects of running a business, such as marketing, finance, and human resources.
- Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding legal and ethical issues in business, including contracts, intellectual property, and workplace regulations.
Technology Skills:
- Computer Proficiency: Mastering essential computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
- Digital Literacy: Developing digital literacy skills to navigate the digital landscape and utilize online tools effectively.
Practical Application:
- Business Plan Development: Creating comprehensive business plans that outline business goals, strategies, and financial projections.
- Market Research: Conducting market research to identify target markets, analyze industry trends, and assess competition.
- Financial Management: Understanding financial statements, budgeting, and cash flow management.
- Marketing and Sales: Developing effective marketing strategies and sales techniques.
By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or careers in business and management. They will have the skills and knowledge to start and run successful businesses, make informed business decisions, and adapt to changing market conditions.
Sophomore Related Class 2
Legal Terminology & Certifications
The Junior Legal & Protective Services course focuses on advanced legal concepts, professional certifications, and career preparation. Key components include:
- Advanced Legal Terminology: Expanding vocabulary and understanding of complex legal terms and concepts.
- Professional Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as CPR, First Aid, and other relevant certifications to enhance career opportunities.
- FEMA Training: Completing FEMA training courses to develop skills in emergency response and disaster recovery.
- Career Exploration: Researching various career paths within the legal and public safety fields, including law enforcement, corrections, and homeland security.
- Professional Development: Developing strong communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
By the end of the junior year, students will have a solid foundation in legal and public safety concepts and be well-prepared for advanced coursework and career opportunities.
Junior Program
The Junior Legal & Protective Services program focuses on practical skills and real-world applications, including:
- Tactical Communications: Effective communication techniques for law enforcement and security personnel.
- Criminal Law and Procedure: In-depth understanding of criminal law and the criminal justice process.
- Report Writing: Developing clear and concise reports, including incident reports and investigative reports.
- Use of Force: Learning the principles of force and the use of force continuum.
- Interview and Interrogation Techniques: Mastering the art of interviewing and interrogating suspects and witnesses.
- Private Investigation: Exploring the role of private investigators and their investigative techniques.
- Domestic Violence: Understanding the dynamics of domestic violence and responding to domestic violence calls.
- Traffic Stops: Learning proper procedures for conducting traffic stops, issuing citations, and making arrests.
- Crime Scene Investigation: Developing skills in crime scene processing, evidence collection, and documentation.
By the end of the junior year, students will be well-prepared for advanced training and real-world applications in law enforcement and public safety.
Junior Related 1
Criminal Investigation I
The Criminal Investigation course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of modern investigative techniques. Key topics include:
- Legal Aspects of Investigations: Understanding the legal framework for conducting investigations, including search warrants, subpoenas, and evidence admissibility.
- Crime Scene Investigation: Learning about crime scene processing, evidence collection, and documentation.
- Interview and Interrogation Techniques: Developing effective communication and interrogation skills to elicit information from witnesses and suspects.
- Cybercrime Investigation: Exploring the digital world of cybercrime, including hacking, identity theft, and online fraud.
- Forensic Science: Understanding the role of forensic science in criminal investigations, including DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, and toxicology.
- Criminal Profiling: Learning about criminal profiling techniques and how they can be used to identify and apprehend suspects.
By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, and related fields. They will have a strong foundation in investigative techniques and the ability to analyze complex criminal cases.
Junior Related 2
Juvenile Delinquency
The Juvenile Delinquency course provides a comprehensive understanding of juvenile delinquency, including its causes, consequences, and prevention strategies. Key topics covered in this course include:
- Juvenile Justice System: Understanding the juvenile justice system, including juvenile courts, detention centers, and rehabilitation programs.
- Juvenile Delinquency Theories: Exploring theories of juvenile delinquency, such as strain theory, social learning theory, and control theory.
- Juvenile Crime: Analyzing trends in juvenile crime and the impact of factors such as poverty, family dysfunction, and peer influence.
- Juvenile Justice Interventions: Evaluating the effectiveness of various juvenile justice interventions, such as probation, community service, and residential treatment.
- Juvenile Offender Rights: Understanding the rights of juvenile offenders and the legal processes involved in juvenile court.
- Prevention and Intervention Strategies: Developing strategies to prevent juvenile delinquency and intervene early to address risk factors.
By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to work with juvenile offenders and contribute to their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Senior Program
In their senior year, Legal & Protective Services students have the opportunity to specialize their education through cooperative education, internships or the EMT course.
Cooperative Education:
- Real-World Experience: Students gain hands-on experience in a variety of law offices, law enforcement, corrections, or other public safety settings.
- Mentorship: Students work closely with experienced professionals to learn valuable skills and insights.
- Professional Development: Develops professional skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Course:
- Medical Training: Students receive comprehensive training in emergency medical care, including CPR, first aid, and advanced life support techniques.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of the course and the EMT certification exam, students will be qualified to work as EMTs.
By the end of their senior year, students will be well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further education in law enforcement, criminal justice, or emergency medical services.
Senior Related 1
Criminal Investigation II
This advanced course delves deeper into the intricacies of criminal investigation, building upon the foundational knowledge gained in Criminal Investigation I. Key topics include:
- Advanced Investigative Techniques: Exploring specialized investigative techniques, such as undercover operations, surveillance, and forensic psychology.
- Digital Forensics: Investigating digital evidence, including computer forensics and mobile device forensics.
- Cybercrime: Understanding the evolving landscape of cybercrime and the tools and techniques used to combat it.
- Organized Crime: Examining the structure and operations of organized crime groups.
- White-Collar Crime: Investigating white-collar crimes, such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft.
- International Criminal Law: Exploring international criminal law and the role of international organizations in combating transnational crime.
Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical exercises, students will develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to become effective criminal investigators.
Senior Related 2
Health & Wellness – Elective
The Health and Wellness class is designed to educate students on overall health and wellbeing. The class will understand the required goals needed for the college application process. The class will provide practical education with teenage alcohol awareness, stress management, mental health, finances, as well as cardio and weight training.
The Health and Wellness course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Key topics covered in this course include:
Physical Health:
- Nutrition: Understanding the importance of a balanced diet, portion control, and healthy eating habits.
- Exercise and Fitness: Developing a regular exercise routine, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
- Sleep Hygiene: Prioritizing adequate sleep for optimal physical and mental health.
- Substance Abuse Prevention: Learning about the dangers of substance abuse and making informed choices.
Mental Health:
- Stress Management: Developing effective stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga.
- Mental Health Awareness: Understanding common mental health conditions and seeking help when needed.
- Emotional Intelligence: Building strong emotional intelligence skills, such as empathy, self-awareness, and social skills.
College and Career Readiness:
- College Application Process: Navigating the college application process, including writing personal statements and essays.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Understanding financial aid options and scholarship opportunities.
- Career Exploration: Identifying career goals and developing a career plan.
By the end of the course, students will be empowered to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. They will also be better prepared for the challenges and opportunities of adulthood.
Certifications
- OSHA 10
- American Red Cross CPR-AED/First-Aid
- Until Help Arrives Tourniquet Application
- Stop the Bleed
- EMT
- E-911 APCO Telecommunicator
- 911 Equipment Certification
- FEMA:
- Leadership in Emergency Management Certification
- National Incident Management System
- Diversity Awareness
- Leadership and Influence
- Decision Making and Problem Solving
- Effective Communication
- Incident Command
- Active Shooter Prevention
- Workplace Security Awareness
- Responding to Active Shooter
- Animals in Disaster Awareness & Preparedness
- Animals in Disaster Community Planning
- ICS 100 Incident Command System
Career Opportunities
- 911 Telecommunicator
- Armed Forces
- Correctional Officer
- Court Personnel
- Emergency Dispatcher
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Firefighter
- Emergency Medical Responder
Post-Secondary Education
Associate Degree Programs:
- Associate of Science (A.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Associate of Arts (A.A.) in Criminal Justice
Bachelor’s Degree Programs:
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Bachelor of Criminal Justice (BCJ)
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Master’s Degree Programs:
- Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Master of Arts (M.A.) in Criminal Justice
- Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ)
- Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice
- Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) with a concentration in Criminal Justice