Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice program provides a comprehensive exploration of the law enforcement system, court systems, correctional philosophies, and the fundamental rules of evidence. Through real-world case studies and immersive training with local agencies, students develop practical expertise in criminal investigation and earn essential first-aid certifications. This pathway establishes a professional baseline for those pursuing careers in law enforcement, corrections, or advanced degrees in criminal justice or legal studies.

• Hands-on Activities- Students in Criminal Justice participate in high-energy Physical Training (PT) to build the stamina required for the field, while practicing tactical drills like handcuffing, warrant arrests, traffic stops, and using simulators to navigate split-second "shoot/don't shoot" decision-making scenarios. These practical exercises allow students to follow the flow of the judicial system from the initial arrest through the intake process, providing a clear view of the various career pathways in law enforcement and corrections. 
• Real World Opportunities- In this class, students will network with professional guest speakers, participate in ride-alongs, and visit multiple facilities in the judicial system.  
• Related Careers- Police Officer, Conservation Officer, Lawyer, Paralegal, Juvenile Justice Officer, Crime Scene Investigator, Corrections, and many more.
• College Credit- Criminal Justice is a direct college credit program with Mid Michigan College. Students who successfully complete the program will earn the following credits:

Year I

• CJS 200- Introduction to Law Enforcement (3 credits)
• CJS 206- Police Patrol Operations (3 credits)
• CJS 220- Introduction to Corrections (3 credits)

Year II

• CJS 204- Criminal Investigation (3 credits)
• CJS 205- Evidence in Police (3 credits)
• CJS 250- Criminal Justice Internship (3 credits)

Instructor: Stephanie Gonzalez

Year Started at CCRESA: 2026

Work Experience in Career Field: Police Officer, School Resource Officer, Judicial Court Officer

What inspired you to teach in your program career field? I worked in a youth program helping young adults explore different careers. One of those careers was law enforcement. The program worked so well that I went into law enforcement myself. Now, after 25 years in the criminal justice field, I want to be able to help students decide if a career serving others is a good fit for them and help them plan the best pathway forward. 

What are some interests outside of the classroom? Exploring different places with my husband, hanging out with our sons, laughing and spending time with friends, kayaking, biking, working out and being outdoors (preferably in national parks). 

How do you hope your students will remember you? As a person who showed them how to bet on themselves, take the chances to do the things they want to do, no matter how uncomfortable or scary it may seem. Living a life with no regrets is the best gift they can give themselves and the people who care about them.