Johnson City, New York Students Get Rare Behind-the-Badge Experience

At first glance, “Ride Along Street Law” might sound like just another school program, but this is actually a pretty incredible opportunity for a small group of students in Johnson City.

The Johnson City Police Department is partnering with Johnson City High School, the school’s Street Law class, and School Resource Officer Lou Cioci to launch the first-ever “Ride Along Street Law” program on Friday, May 8.

Students Will Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Police Work

For students interested in law enforcement, criminal justice, or public service, experiences like this don’t come around every day.

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The program gives students in Johnson City High School’s Street Law class a firsthand look at modern policing and the role officers play in the community. Instead of only learning about law enforcement in a classroom setting, these students will get the chance to see what the job actually looks like in real life and ask questions along the way.

That kind of hands-on learning can leave a lasting impression, especially for students still figuring out what path they may want to take after graduation.

The Opportunity Is Designed for Students Interested in Public Service

According to the department, the program is specifically for students currently enrolled in the Street Law class who are interested in law enforcement or public service careers.

For some students, this could help confirm that the career field is the one they want to pursue. For others, it may simply provide a better understanding of the responsibilities, challenges, and day-to-day realities that officers face.

Either way, it’s a unique opportunity to learn outside the classroom walls.

Safety and Parent Permission Are Part of the Program

Before students can participate, parental consent is required, and participants must meet the department’s established guidelines to ensure the experience remains safe and appropriate.

The focus, according to the Johnson City Police Department, is on education, community engagement, and building positive relationships with local youth.

Johnson City Police Hope the Program Builds Understanding

The department says programs like this help encourage trust, communication, and mutual respect between students and law enforcement.

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Giving young people the chance to see a profession up close, ask thoughtful questions, and learn directly from the people doing the work every day feels like a meaningful investment in both the students and the community.