A group of 6 students stand in khakis and a dark blue polo between the American and Ohio flags.

Pickaway-Ross Basic Peace Officer Academy Celebrates Third Graduating Class, All Cadets Commissioned

The Pickaway-Ross Career & Technology Center Basic Peace Officer Academy (BPOA) has graduated its third class, with every cadet already commissioned by a local law enforcement agency and preparing to serve area communities.

a group of law enforcement officials stand in a rowThe class delivered outstanding results throughout the program. Cadets earned a 90.25 percent average on the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission final exam, far exceeding the 70 percent required to pass. The class also maintained an overall average of 92 percent during the academy.

“This was a very fun and talented class to work with, demonstrating strong overall performance in every aspect of training,” said Commander Terri Mikesh. “I’m excited to see them continue to learn and do great things as they get started in their law enforcement careers.”

Graduates have accepted positions with the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, Waverly Police Department, Logan Police Department, and the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, with half of the class remaining in Pickaway County.

The academy's partnership with Ohio University Chillicothe remains instrumental in maintaining program excellence. At the same time, its prestigious Ohio Attorney General STAR Academy designation underscores its commitment to exceeding state training standards.

"It is such an honor to be able to provide programming to incredible students who desire to serve the public," said Superintendent Jonathan Davis. "I was blown away by the talent and commitment of this year's graduating class and commend Commander Mikesh and her awesome team for another successful class that will go out and keep our communities safe."

This latest success reinforces Pickaway-Ross BPOA's vital role in developing highly qualified law enforcement professionals and enhancing public safety across the region. The program's placement rate and exceptional academic achievements demonstrate its continued commitment to excellence in peace officer training.