Below is a press release from the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office:
CHELMSFORD, MA — Teamwork, curiosity, and plenty of hands-on learning was on full display as the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) kicked off the first week of its 2026 Youth Public Safety Academy (YPSA)!
Between July 6-10, 91 cadets from Middlesex County – primarily Chelmsford, Lowell, Tewksbury, and Wilmington – had the opportunity to learn, meet new friends, and step into the shoes of public safety professionals. Through experiences that challenged them to think critically and work together, they tackled activities educating them about law enforcement, fire safety, emergency preparedness, and more!
Public safety professionals from Chelmsford, Lowell, Tewksbury and Wilmington also joined activities with cadets throughout the week.
Cadets also got to meet members of the MSO’s K9 unit, staff and a chicken from MSO’s Project EARTH program, participate in interactive team activities, and had visits from the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing and Mounted Units, the Massachusetts National Guard and the Massachusetts Environmental Police.
In addition, cadets learned about bicycle safety from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, cyber-safety from the US Secret Service, first-aid from Armstrong Ambulance, and the Lowell Health Department spoke about summer safety and hydration.
“Every week, it’s incredible to watch these young people step outside their comfort zones, support one another and discover all they are capable of,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “YPSA is about more than learning about public safety. It’s about building confidence, developing leadership skills and creating memories they will carry with them long after camp ends.”
The academy’s success is made possible by a dedicated team of counselors, staff, and community partners whose goal is to create a safe, engaging and memorable experience for every cadet.
“Our staff and partners are the heart of this program. They show up every day with energy, patience and a genuine commitment to these children,” said YPSA Director Meghan Lee. “Whether they are leading an activity, encouraging someone through a challenge, or simply making a cadet smile, I know they are leaving a lasting impact.”
Each week of YPSA ends with a graduation ceremony to recognize cadets for their efforts as they are cheered on by their loved ones, public safety leaders and elected officials from their communities.
This week, graduates were joined by Wilmington Police Chief Brian Pupa, Chelmsford Fire Chief Gary Ryan, State Senator Vanna Howard (D-First Middlesex), State Representative David Robertson (D-19th Middlesex), Lowell Vice Mayor Vesna Nuon and Lowell City Councilor Rita Mercier.
YPSA is comprised of five, one-week sessions and is open to individuals ages 8-12 living in any city or town in Middlesex County. Children ages 13-15 may also participate as Counselors-In-Training, or CITs.
To learn more about the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office or the YPSA program, please visit www.middlesexsheriff.org.
Cadets from Wilmington were joined by Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian, Special Sheriff Amoroso Cefalo, Chief of Police Brian Pupa, and Representative David A. Robertson, among others.
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