The National Police Association’s (NPA) free elective credit homeschool course, Defending Law Enforcement & Restoring Criminal Justice, is a timely and necessary addition to the curriculum for today’s high school homeschool students. In an era where law enforcement is often misrepresented, this criminal justice homeschool course aims to provide students from grades 9 through 12 with a balanced perspective on policing and criminal justice. As media, social movements, and educational institutions increasingly shape public perceptions of law enforcement, young people may develop skewed views on police work, which makes this course crucial for fostering a more rounded understanding. One of the primary issues affecting students’ views on law enforcement is the portrayal of police in media. News outlets and digital platforms frequently present police work in a negative light. This intense focus on negativity can lead students to believe that law enforcement is inherently corrupt or violent, ignoring officers’ countless positive daily contributions. The NPA’s police studies for high school course provides students with context and statistics, allowing them to see the broader picture of policing as a profession centered on community service and safety. This balanced view is essential for young people to appreciate the dedication of the vast majority of officers who work tirelessly to protect their communities. Social movements have also influenced how students perceive law enforcement. Movements like Black Lives Matter lobby on behalf of criminal interests advocating for the abolishing of prisons, incarceration, and the police, leading to a cultural environment of scrutiny toward police work. In educational and social circles, this heightened criticism sometimes fosters a negative environment where students may feel peer pressure to adopt anti-police sentiments. The NPA course addresses these societal pressures by encouraging students to critically evaluate the complex issues surrounding policing and justice. By doing so, it provides a space for students to discuss these topics without solely focusing on negative narratives. Moreover, the educational climate has shifted towards a more critical view of institutional structures, including law enforcement. Many schools emphasize social justice, which, while valuable, may contribute to a one-sided portrayal of police work. The NPA’s course, grounded in principles like duty, respect, and integrity, offers an alternative viewpoint. It introduces students to the positive values that guide the law enforcement profession, which have historically been held in high esteem. By exposing students to these ideals, the course encourages a respectful and comprehensive view of law enforcement. The need for this elective course extends beyond addressing misconceptions; it also seeks to inspire the next generation of public servants. This introduction to law enforcement careers course emphasizes that careers in law enforcement are both honorable and vital to maintaining public safety. This is particularly important as younger generations show less interest in law enforcement careers due to cultural and societal shifts. By restoring respect for the profession, the course hopes to encourage students who may otherwise have overlooked or dismissed a future in public service. In a society where students are often exposed to one-sided narratives about policing, Defending Law Enforcement & Restoring Criminal Justice fills an essential educational gap. It provides homeschool students with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and rewards of law enforcement, helping to cultivate informed and balanced citizens who appreciate the role of police in a democratic society.
