BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. — Police officers in Blue Springs kicked off a week-long boot camp Monday, designed to get troubled teens back on track.
More than 40 teenagers enrolled in this summer’s Leadership Challenge, now in its 18th year. Some participated because they got in trouble at home or school, or because they’ve broken the law.
The training started promptly at 8 a.m. with the bang of a flash grenade. Organized chaos ensued as instructors began a grueling day of physical training.
“We follow a military model,” said Sgt. Colby Lalli. “We demand and will instill respect.”
This summer camp is not meant to be fun; It’s a wake up call.
“You feel like you`re in trouble a little bit,” admitted 15-year-old Anthony Foster.
“They’ve never been asked to be a accountable for their actions,” said Sgt. Lalli. “They made the decision that got them here.”
Decisions like fighting at school, doing drugs or being defiant with police. All that bad behavior stops here.
“I don’t care how you act back on the block or at home,” Sgt. Lalli told the teens. “You will not act that way here at camp. Do you understand?”
For some parents, the no-nonsense camp is a last resort – a way to keep their child out of juvenile court.
“She’s got to go to this camp to keep from having it on her record,” said mother Crystal Mooers, whose daughter got in trouble for fighting.
For others, it’s a choice they make for their kid –a glimmer of hope when all else has failed.
“I’m hoping it will change his whole attitude because his grades are suffering at school,” said mother Sherron Stacker. “His behavior at home is getting worse.”
For these teens, mind, body and soul are tested as they learn respect, how to make better decisions, and undergo a serious attitude adjustment.
“We want these students to be leaders,” Sgt. Lalli said. “Right now, unfortunately, they’re leaders in the wrong direction.”
The camp costs $110 per child, with scholarships available for those who can’t afford it. Paramedics stand by to ensure safety and many parents stick around to watch.
Camp caps off this Friday with a final physical challenge, graduation ceremony and hopefully, a fresh start for many of these teens.
If you’re interested in having your child attend camp next year, call the Blue Springs Police Dept. at 816-228-0178.