The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office recently visited Alexandria Senior High School to speak with students enrolled in the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program, providing an opportunity to learn about careers in law enforcement and the responsibilities of various divisions within the department.

During the visit, deputies spoke with students about their daily responsibilities, explained different aspects of law enforcement, and provided an up-close look at equipment used in their work.

Students heard presentations from patrol deputies, negotiators, SWAT personnel, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Bomb Squad members, K-9 personnel, and detectives.

The visit marked the third consecutive year that the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office has participated in the school’s JAG program.

Established in 1980, Jobs for America’s Graduates provides elective courses taught by program specialists in middle schools, high schools, and after-school programs. The program focuses on helping students develop essential employment skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for careers or postsecondary education.

JAG also provides a year of support following graduation to assist students as they transition into the workforce or continue their education.

The Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to JAG teacher Brandi Crane for inviting deputies to participate in the program again this year.

The department said it hopes the presentation helped students better understand the work performed by deputies and the different opportunities available within law enforcement.

The Sheriff’s Office also expressed its enthusiasm for continuing its involvement with the program next year.