Local Youth Step Up as Leaders in Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown Police Academy

This summer, students from Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown are stepping into leadership roles through the Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown Youth Leadership Police Academy. The program offers local youth a unique opportunity to build confidence, develop life skills, and connect with community leaders in a supportive and educational environment.

“This year we had a total of 62 applicants ranging in age from 10 to 14,” said Sleepy Hollow High School Resource Officer Steven Bencosme. “The program is loosely structured off of our academy. We are building our leaders of tomorrow by instilling values such as teamwork, respect, responsibility, and discipline.”

Running across three week-long sessions—Aug. 4–8, Aug. 11–15, and Aug. 18–22—and centered on hands-on activities and mentorship from local law enforcement, participants gain valuable insight into public service and the importance of civic responsibility.

Each day of the program includes physical training, classroom-style discussions, role-playing scenarios, and team-building exercises. Officers from the Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown police departments, along with guest speakers from Westchester County law enforcement agencies and Homeland Security, guide the students through experiences designed to promote leadership, self-discipline, and problem-solving.

“Over the course of the first three days, we watched for those who stood out among their peers—those who paid attention and gave their best effort,” said Officer Bencosme. “This helped us determine who would be selected as the platoon leader and squad leaders.”

Rising sixth-grader Emma was chosen to be a platoon leader and said she truly enjoyed the program.

“This is my second year, and I really like it. I joined because I wanted to see how it felt to train as a police officer. I want to be part of Homeland Security one day,” said Emma. “My favorite part was going to the Westchester County Police Academy, where we saw a helicopter and police canines.”

Rising sixth-grader Matthew also enjoyed the trip to the Westchester County Police Academy.

“I’m thinking about becoming a police officer, and this program was helpful. It showed me discipline and how to train,” said Matthew, a squad leader.

While some students participated in a single week, others signed up for two or even all three sessions. This extended participation allows them to deepen their understanding of leadership principles and serve as role models for new recruits.

"As a squad leader I have to make sure my group is in line and always facing forward," said rising seventh-grader Adrianna.

"I like connecting with my peers and making sure they are doing the right thing. It's a lot of work, but at the end of the day it's a lot of fun," added rising sixth-grader Riley, who is also a squad leader.

By empowering local youth through meaningful experiences and mentorship, the Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown Youth Leadership Police Academy is cultivating the next generation of community-minded leaders—young people who are prepared to serve, lead, and strengthen the communities they call home. Now in its second year, the program is already seeing returning participants from last summer, many of whom have stepped into leadership roles. Their continued involvement highlights the program’s lasting impact and the strong sense of commitment it fosters among students.