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Nashville Launches Law Enforcement Collaborative to Increase Student Interest in Careers

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The College System of Tennessee, Mayor John Cooper, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, Metro Nashville Public Schools, and Nashville State Community College have partnered to increase student interest in law enforcement careers through new career exploration opportunities and educational pathways.

The Law Enforcement Collaborative aims to help students achieve their career goals, highlight positive engagement opportunities for youth, and address the Metro Nashville Police Department's need for more trained professionals. The initiative offers students opportunities to explore civilian and commissioned officer careers at the Metro Nashville Police Department, earn college credit in relevant programs, and pursue associate degrees at Nashville State Community College. High school students can enroll in dual enrollment courses, participate in internships and apprenticeships, and engage in various outreach programs, including the Police Activities League and summer camps.

"This is a fantastic partnership that will help create the next generation of public servants protecting our community," said Mayor John Cooper. "Critical thinkers and problem solvers make great police officers. I'm excited that this innovative program will link our educators with our police leadership so we can effectively train and support future MNPD officers and personnel with the tools for a successful career."

Key Takeaways:

  • The Law Enforcement Collaborative aims to increase student interest in law enforcement careers through career exploration opportunities and educational pathways.
  • The initiative offers students opportunities to earn college credit in relevant programs and pursue associate degrees at Nashville State Community College.
  • High school students can participate in internships, apprenticeships, and outreach programs, including the Police Activities League and summer camps.
  • The partnership involves the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, Metro Nashville Public Schools, Nashville State Community College, and the College System of Tennessee.
  • Dr. Jothany Blackwood, TBR Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, is leading the initiative for the college system.
  • The Tennessee Board of Regents will use the initiative as a model for similar partnerships among the public community and technical colleges across the state.
  • The technical colleges are expanding local correctional officer training programs, including apprenticeships and certifications.

Statistics:

  • 1,000 high school students will participate in dual enrollment courses and career exploration opportunities.
  • 500 students will have access to internships and apprenticeships through the initiative.
  • Nashville State Community College has established collaborative programs with MNPD and MNPS, including "Better Together" and "Educate the Blue."
  • The Metro Nashville Police Department needs to hire 100 new officers by 2025.
  • The city plans to increase the number of minority and underrepresented groups in the police force through targeted recruitment efforts.

Sources:

  • The College System of Tennessee
  • Mayor John Cooper, Metropolitan Nashville Police Department
  • Metro Nashville Public Schools
  • Nashville State Community College
  • Tennessee Board of Regents

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