JSCC invites local high school students to learn about their criminal justice program
JACKSON, Tenn. — High school students from all around West Tennessee joined together at a local college to learn about one of their programs.
Jackson State Community College, once again, invited students from West Tennessee high schools who are interested in criminal justice to come to their campus to learn all about their program. Tommy Cepparulo, assistant professor of criminal justice, said this program was a big success last year, and wanted to make it a bit different this year.
“We want to just show them what Jackson State’s about with criminal justice. We also want to show our collaboration with local state law enforcement. With TBI coming on campus today, doing six breakout sessions with a different entity with TBI,” said Cepparulo.
Special Agent Criminal Investigator with the TBI, Ken Rhodes said it was important for them to come to Jackson State to let these students know what it is like to actually be working these jobs.
“There is what is taught versus what reality is when you’re out there on the street. We’re trying to give them a real world experience perspective,” said Rhodes.
The criminal justice program has grown a ton over the last few years. From what used to be 6 students, they now have 122 criminal justice majors. With this growth, comes better tools and equipment that can be used for educational purposes.
“We’ve got a MILO simulator and we’re doing a lot of church training. We’re doing a lot of training with our students. We’re teaching them to use their voice to deescalate the situation. So it’s just been a plethora of learning that we’re able to give with that simulator,” said Cepparulo.
There were over 92 high school students that attended today’s open house. Cepparulo says they will continue to do these as long as there is participation.
Cepparulo also said that he believes the criminal justice program may be able to get up to 250 majors within the next five years if Jackson state’s growth continues.
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