What is the Junior Deputy Academy?

The Stafford Sheriff's Junior Deputy Academy is designed for children who have an avid interest in Law Enforcement and are eager to learn more from the deputies who work in their community. 

The academy is designed to provide a basic understanding of what deputies do through educational hands-on activities and experiences along with classroom presentations. This program focuses on the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office core values; Professionalism, Fairness, Compassion and Integrity, encouraging each participant to continue to practice these values long after they 'graduate' from the program.

When is the next JDA?

Elementary Session - June 3rd through June 7th

Middle School Session  - June 10th through June 14th

Who can apply to participate in JDA?

All rising 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th graders who reside in Stafford County may apply.  There are limited seats available.  Not all who apply will be selected to participate.

How does the selection process work?

Each applicant is asked to write a short explanation, no more than 150 words, as to why they would like to participate in JDA which is uploaded during the application process.  We then ask selected members of the Sheriff's Office and Stafford County Public Schools to assist with reviewing each application to determine if they meet the eligibility criteria.  Ultimately, the available seats are filled by eligible applicants using a blind randomized selection process.

How many seats are there?

Currently we have less than 50 seats available for each week of JDA.

Why do the applicants have to hand write their explanation?

We ask each child to hand write their explanation to ensure they understand what JDA is and they want to participate.  Seats are extremely limited, therefore, every participant's desire to be in JDA is required for the success of the program.  Their explanation lets us know they have a true desire to be considered for one of those limited seats because they have an interest in learning more about law enforcement and are excited to interact with those who have made a career of law enforcement.  It doesn't have to be beautifully written, it just has to be from the heart!  We encourage others to assist, but the explanation should be written by the child applicant themselves.

Is there a charge to participate in JDA?

No, there is no charge to participate in the JDA program.  Historically, the program has been funded by a State Grant and funds allocated by the Sheriff for this purpose.

When and where can we apply?

Applications will be accepted beginning on February 12th.  A registration link will be available on this page beginning February 12th.  

How and when will I know my child has been selected for JDA?

All applicants will receive an automatic reply once their application has been successfully received.  We then request everyone's patience while we review each and every application.  Notifications are made by email and are usually sent by April 30th.

Who staffs JDA and can I volunteer to assist with the JDA program?

JDA is staffed and run by the members of the Stafford Sheriff's Office, both sworn and civilian.  We have so much support from them, we do not have the need for any other assistance at this time.  Thank you for inquiring!

Who do I contact for more information?

If you have questions regarding JDA that have not been answered in this FAQ, please contact us at scsojda@staffordcountyva.gov