Three generous local corporate sponsors from the Bertie County community presented donations today to support the new public safety cadet program which starts classes in Bertie County Schools in January.
Republic Services contributed $10,000, JBA Property Management LLC contributed $5,000 and Perdue Farms contributed $2,000. Representatives from the companies presented checks today at Bertie High School and spoke to the group of high school juniors who will comprise the first class in the new cadet program. Funds from the corporate sponsors will help pay for books, uniforms and other cadet program operating expenses.
The new cadet program, which leads to a career path with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, was developed jointly by the school system, community leaders, the Governor’s Office and the Department of Public Safety. The pilot program is aimed at keeping more young residents of Bertie County employed and near home and at developing a well-trained and eligible workforce for one of the county’s largest employers, Bertie Correctional Institution.
Bertie County high school students interested in the criminal justice field may participate as Public Safety Cadets during their 11th and 12th grade years. These students will study a criminal justice curriculum focused on developing integrity, leadership and support for the community.
Successful completion of the high school course work in the cadet program will provide credits toward an associate’s degree in criminal justice at Roanoke-Chowan Community College or Martin Community College. After completing the cadet program and earning an associate’s degree in criminal justice, students will be exceptionally prepared to begin working as a correctional employee in the North Carolina Department of Public Safety.