It's a citywide competition for youth in 9th through 12th grades administered by the Police Athletic League.
"When I see the outstanding talent and enthusiasm in this room, I feel optimistic about the future of this city. We need young people who are problems solvers, who can think logically, carefully, and creatively, and who can express themselves persuasively," Commissioner Kelly said. "I look forward to the day, after you've finished high school and college - when you might consider a career with the Police Department."
This year's essay question was: "If you were Police Commissioner for a Day, what initiatives would you implement to address two of these major issues impacting on the city's youth: guns, unemployment, interpersonal violence, and gangs?"
Samantha Medina focused her essay on gangs and guns. Medina was one of approximately 130 youth whose essays were selected by a panel of judges. Essay winners spent most of Wednesday with a senior executive, chief, or precinct commander from the NYPD.
In addition to programs through the Police Athletic League, the New York City Police Department provides opportunities and outlets to youth citywide through its Community Affairs Youth Services Bureau.
A description of programs can be found at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/nypd/html/community_affairs/youth_programs.shtml.
More information about the Police Athletic League is also available online at: http://www.palnyc.org/.
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