When Hannah McLendon first learned about the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Cadet Program, she wasn't sure what career she wanted to pursue after high school. Today, having been involved with the program, the Sparta High School graduate is studying criminal justice at WTC and preparing to attend the police academy after she graduates.
McLendon recently received two $1,000 scholarships through the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Charitable Foundation. One scholarship will help pay for her education; the other will help cover expenses for her attendance at the National Leadership Academy at George Mason University in August. The scholarship recognizes cadets who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a commitment to serving their community.
Monroe County Sheriff's Cadet program mentor Deputy Paul Reichardt said, "Hannah has always applied herself very well—not only through coming to our meetings, but through her academics, which are very strong, and the other work she's done trying to learn more about law enforcement."
McLendon says the award will help her continue working toward her goal of becoming a deputy with the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.
"It means that I will be able to pay for college and not be in financial need anymore," McLendon said.
After graduating from Sparta High School in 2025, McLendon enrolled in Western Technical College's criminal justice program. She plans to complete her degree at WTC, then attend the police academy, and is one of 40 individuals across the county selected to attend the National Leadership Academy (Law enforcement sector) at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She then hopes to apply and become a Monroe County deputy.
Her interest in law enforcement began after she came across a Facebook post announcing the Sheriff's Office Cadet Program.
"I didn't really know what to do as a career," McLendon said. "Out of high school, I wasn't sure what career path I wanted to go through. When I joined the cadet program, I really loved it."
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office Cadet Program introduces young people to careers in law enforcement and other public safety professions through education, mentorship and practical experience. According to the program's mission statement, it seeks to mentor young adults by providing knowledge, skills and hands-on experiences that build character, physical fitness and respect for the rule of law.
Cadets meet on the first Tuesday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. under the guidance of mentors from the sheriff's office. Over time, cadets are expected to take leadership roles while learning the responsibilities of law enforcement professionals. Participation is free, and students are required to maintain at least a 2.0 grade-point average while enrolled. Applicants must be between the ages of 14 and 20 and attend a Monroe County high school.
"Anybody who has an interest in law enforcement, whether it's just an initial interest or a very strong interest, this is taught by a group of professionals who are really committed to helping the young people of our area get an experience they might not get other places," said Reichardt.
The program exposes participants to a wide variety of law enforcement skills through classroom instruction and hands-on training. Cadets practice vehicle contacts, room-clearing techniques, communication skills, physical fitness and de-escalation strategies. They also gain experience with evidence collection procedures, accident reconstruction, first aid certification and the department's MILO simulator. This interactive training system helps participants develop decision-making and tactical skills in realistic scenarios.
McLendon said the academy-style training has given her confidence that she is choosing the right career.
"It made me way more interested in law enforcement," she said. "We're doing academy-level stuff too, so it's going to prepare me for the academy."
Cadets also gain firsthand exposure to public safety by participating in ride-alongs with deputies and visiting agencies such as the Sparta Police Department, Tomah Area Ambulance Service, and the Monroe County Jail.
"I think being able to go on ride-alongs and having real-world experience has helped a lot," McLendon said. "I really enjoy being able to meet different deputies and continue with different experiences."
Beyond career preparation, the program emphasizes community service. Cadets volunteer at events throughout Monroe County, including National Night Out, Cranfest, tractor pulls, the Monroe County Fair, and holiday events, helping with traffic control, public safety, and community outreach while interacting with residents.
For McLendon, one of the biggest surprises has been the culture within law enforcement.
"What surprised me the most is how great a group of people they are," she said. "Everyone is very friendly, and if you're having a mental health crisis, they'll step in and help you. Everyone is super supportive. Even if you don't know something, they'll help you with it."
Receiving the scholarship, she said, is an honor that reflects the effort she has invested in the program.
"I think they chose me because I'm very dedicated to the program," she said.
She encourages other students—even those who are uncertain about their future—to consider joining.
"I would tell them to join anyway, even if they don't know what they're going to do in the future," McLendon said. "I didn't know what I was going to do, and I ended up loving it. Even if they don't go into law enforcement, it's a good program and a good way to connect with people and learn about law enforcement."
For McLendon, the scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is confirmation that she is on the right path. From a high school student uncertain about her future to an aspiring deputy preparing for the academy, she says joining the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Cadet Program was one of the best decisions she has made. "I think everything's exciting about it," she said.
Monroe County Sheriff's Office Charitable Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community. The foundation raises funds to support educational programs, youth initiatives, community outreach, and training opportunities that enhance public safety throughout Monroe County. In addition to supporting the cadet program, the foundation partners with local organizations and charities to promote the health and well-being of county residents and to help prepare the next generation of public safety professionals.
The Monroe County Sheriff's Office continues to accept applications for the Cadet Program from students interested in careers in law enforcement, corrections, 911 communications, firefighting, and emergency medical services. Applicants complete an interview and background screening before being accepted into the program.
For more information about the Cadet program and to apply, visit https://www.co.monroe.wi.us/departments/sheriff-s-office/cadet-program
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