The Stephens County Sheriff’s Office wrapped up its 2025 Junior Deputy Academy on Friday with a cookout, a graduation ceremony, and a lot of proud parents snapping photos.
More than 40 elementary-aged kids took part in the weeklong program designed to teach them about public safety—through hands-on experiences, friendly competitions, and just the right amount of summer fun.
Throughout the week, students met with first responders and public safety professionals who shared insights into their jobs and the tools they use every day. From climbing inside an AirLife helicopter to checking out the gear used in the county’s newest ambulance, the kids got an up-close look at the life-saving equipment that serves Stephens County.
They also learned about jail operations, 911 dispatching, water safety, crime scene investigations, and more. Demonstrations from the Georgia State Patrol’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team, the Toccoa Fire Department, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers brought the lessons to life. State troopers even walked the junior deputies through mock traffic stops and showed them how drones are used to reconstruct crash scenes.
But it wasn’t all serious business. The week featured dodgeball matches against firefighters and deputies, snow cones from Kona Ice, a swimming day at the Toccoa City Pool, and a BB rifle shooting competition—where the girls especially showed off their sharpshooting skills. Students also had a chance to try on “drunk goggles” and attempt an emergency driving course to better understand the dangers of impaired driving.
Throughout it all, the junior deputies were encouraged by school resource officers, Sheriff’s Office Explorers, and visiting heroes from the community. On the final day, Stephens County Sheriff Rusty Fulbright handed out certificates and awards, including the Top Junior Deputy Award and Sharp Shooter Award.
“These kids came in with energy and curiosity, and they left with a better understanding of what it takes to keep their community safe,” said Fulbright. “We’re proud of each and every one of them.”
The Banks County Sheriff’s Office wrapped up its Junior Deputy Camp earlier in June. Beyond providing a fun summer camp experience, organizers say these events give first responders a chance to inspire the next generation of public servants.
