Commissioner Dan Polk, cadets Grace Mischak, Jake Zemgulis | Village of Palos Park
Commissioner Dan Polk, cadets Grace Mischak, Jake Zemgulis | Village of Palos Park
At its March 27 board meeting, Palos Park village board members received a presentation on the Palos Park Police Department cadet program.
The board was told the goal of the program is to inspire area young people to learn more about policing and law enforcement, as well as encourage them to explore all their interests in a responsible and educational way. The cadet program also provides scholarships supported by individuals and local businesses and organizations to send help fund cadets' secondary education.
"So you might recognize the famous Park Police cadet program, whose members are actually the law enforcement explorers for their commitment and dedication," Dan Polk, commissioner of Palos Park, told the board. "This dynamic program has two distinct components: education as well as training. Palos Park officer Kevin Green oversees the program that offers youth between the ages of 14 and 20, (who) might be interested in community service, as well as a possible career in law enforcement, the opportunity to learn about policing in free society."
Polk presented cadets Jake Zemgulis and Grace Mischak with $500 grants for their future education. Mischak addressed the council and community first, thanking everyone involved in the program for helping her along the way. She recounted how at first she was nervous throughout her interview for the program, but she now looks back on all the invaluable information and experiences she has gained. She said she feels equipped to complete her degree in criminal justice and her future career as a community service officer.
Zemgulis also addressed the meeting, expressing his gratitude to everyone he worked with, but especially the leadership who guided him throughout the program. He said he started the program at 14, and has grown so much in the past four years. He said he now has absolutely no doubts that he will be pursuing a career in law enforcement and looks forward to serving his community.
Both of the grant recipients intend to spend the money on the classes they are taking.
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