Photos by Johnson City Central School District

Most high school students hope to avoid spending a day inside a police cruiser. But when class credit is part of the deal, a ride-along takes on an entirely different meaning for both teens and officers.

As part of the Street Law class at Johnson City High School, in Johnson City, New York, students intrigued by careers in law enforcement, criminal justice and public service were invited to shadow police officers. School resource officer Lou Cioci told WBNG that he ran out of applications when the opportunity was presented to students.

In addition to accompanying officers on patrol and responding to calls for service, students met with Police Chief Brent Dodge, toured the station and walked a beat on Main Street.

“Both officers and students will gain a mutual respect of each other. You know the officers riding around with the students, they’re going to learn stuff too,” Community Engagement Officer Jay Peets said, adding that he hopes to repeat the Ride Along Street Law program when school resumes this fall.