EVANSTON, IL - On December 6^th, 2018 The Evanston Police Department launched its S.T.A.R. Academy program.  S.T.A.R. Academy which stands for Skills to Achieve Results is a leadership program geared toward middle school aged girls. Members of the Evanston Police Department met with students from Chute Middle School to embark on a long-term positive mentor-ship journey.

The program was developed after a direct request from community members.  The mission of the S.T.A.R. Academy is “to provide young girls with opportunities and the skills needed to succeed in their community and society while promoting self-awareness and empowerment.”  S.T.A.R. focuses on Five Pillars of Achievement: Respect, Responsibility, Self-Awareness, Leadership, and Education.

The program is offered in partnership with District 65. As part of its pilot year, the program is currently being offered at Chute.  The program is referral based with participants being selected by school staff.  The committee that developed the program is comprised of female officers that bring different skill sets backgrounds, and experiences to the program and all possess a passion for community engagement. Those officers are:  Officer Enjoli Daley, Officer Nina Griffith, Officer Francesca Henderson, Officer Tanya Jenkins, Detective Tosha Wilson and Detective Amanda Wright. 

The committee developed the format and curriculum for the program with valuable feedback and advice from District 65 faculty and staff. A special thank you to James McHolland, and the faculty and staff at Chute for tremendous support and assistance with the program and students. As well as a special thank you to Brian Harris with District 65 for his assistance and support.

For questions please email staracademy@cityofevanston.org or feel free to reach out to any of the committee members listed above.