The City of Topeka and the Topeka Police Department have entered into a cooperative working relationship with Topeka/Shawnee County SAFE STREETS. SAFE STS is a citizen initiative effort to bring together resources to combat crime and promote the improvement of neighborhoods and enhance the quality of life for our citizens.

Among the many efforts sponsored by Safe STS is the first ever Young Citizens Academy. The focus of the academy is to communicate to our youth that they have a place and responsibility in their community. The academy program agenda is modular and allows for customizing the presentation to the targeted age group for each session.

Generally the subject areas covered are "Citizenship and Self Esteem", "Goal Setting", "Life Opportunities" and "Youth and Law Enforcement." Accompanying tracts of instruction may include education, cultural diversity, drug and alcohol abuse, conflict resolution, technical training, recreation, volunteerism, the arts, and mentoring. The academy is presented in three hour blocks on five consecutive Saturdays at different locations. The students are selected by the school principals who present two names from each school.

Last paragraph should read: For more information contact Sally Zellers, Safe STS, 785-266-4606 or Sgt. Lance Feyh, Topeka Police Department, 785-368-9497.