Explorers Program

The Grand Blanc Police Explorers Post Number 431 was started back in the early 1990s by the Grand Blanc City Police Department (PD) in conjunction with the Boy Scouts of America. Its goal was to assist students, ages 15 to 20 with an interest in law enforcement, with the decision of whether or not they wanted a career as a police officer. Membership included the rare opportunity to work side-by-side with police officers and firefighters as they trained, as well as, interacting with the public. 

Training scenarios, guided by seasoned police officers, and the ability to expose students to real-world law enforcement experiences, afforded many youths the opportunity to see if this job is really for them. For those that eventually chose the path of law enforcement, they entered the competitive job market with hands-on experience and on-the-job training which set them apart from others seeking employment in their field. The newly resurrected post is set to provide all of the same opportunities and experiences that were offered in the past, with fresh faces, updated technology, and new ideas.

Advisors & Instructors

The Post, run by Sergeant Scott Theede along with Office Amber Weber and Officer Jon Strom, will offer many unique experiences for local youth to become involved in, such as:

  • Traffic stops
  • First aid/CPR/AED certification
  • Responding to critical incidents
  • Public perception
  • Domestic violence
  • Public service events
  • Various police and fire fighting tactics

The Grand Blanc Police Explorers has recruited advisors and instructors from the Grand Blanc Township PD, Grand Blanc City PD, and the Grand Blanc Fire Department in order to assist in the many training opportunities. It is our goal to provide the highest quality training, professionalism, and experience to our local youth, in the hopes that they may be working side-by-side with us in the future.

Explorer Academy

For 40 years, the Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Advisory Council (MLEYAC) has held an Explorer Academy for one week a year to challenge and educate students interested in law enforcement in a police academy-style environment. The students are up at 6 o'clock in the morning and then they work out, march, attend classes, receive more physical training and then go to bed at 10 pm. Throughout the week, various demonstrations take place that offers the Explorers a rare chance to see and interact with SWAT members, mounted units, K9 handlers, taser instructors, etc. 

The Grand Blanc Township Police Department has sent police officers to this worthwhile experience since July 2000. Over the years, their roles have included range officer, drill instructor, as well as administrative and command duties. Two Grand Blanc Township Officers are MLEYAC committee members and are charged with the responsibility to keep the Academy running for many more years to come.