Rebecca Smith
Staff Writer 

When someone talks of criminal justice, they mean more than just a shiny gold badge, a fancy uniform, and being able to wield a gun.  They’re talking about the sacrifices you make and the risks you take to protect those in your community.

Bobi Foster-Grahler, law enforcement advocate and instructor of the Criminal Justice program offers her students an umbrella of degrees and certificate programs that all provide a rich experience in the field of criminal justice.

“One thing I enjoy about being a teacher is the moment when I see students who first walk into my class. They don’t necessarily have a voice, yet when they graduate I can see the progress they have developed and the way they can stand up for one another. That’s one of those big “aha!” moments for me.”
The program offers a general AA Associates in Criminal Justice, in which the program lasts about an intensive 8 quarters in length. There is also the DTA Transferable degree in Criminal Justice if the student wishes to transfer to a university later in the course. Amongst the degree programs, Grahler offers multiple certificate programs such as the Law Enforcement Explorer certificate (for  those under 21 years of age who would like to get a hands-on taste of what it’s like to be a Cadet); the Forensic Technician certificate, for those undergoing CSI training, and a certificate program for the Reserve Officers and Commissioned Officers.

Her most popular certificate program offered at Pierce is the Basic Law Enforcement certificate, a 2 quarter course which also offers a 180 hour internship. A respectable program that prepares the students who are going into the field as a Corrections Officer.   As an instructor, Grahler spends time throughout the years with many students who come and go; yet she receives gratification when she sees her students become confident and comfortable standing up for one another; and in those who are ready to don the uniform and protect our families.

Though the program may be intense, those who are passionate about providing justice to our community will also receive a great amount of satisfaction in the long run.
The Criminal Justice Program and the Pioneer would also like to remind the students that November 29th, is the upcoming memorial in remembrance of the Lakewood 4.
Please give a moment to honor those four who sacrificed so much for our community by wearing a dark blue ribbon throughout the month of November. We will never forget.