Woodland High School students enrolled in the Law Enforcement class at Dorchester County Career and Technical Center (DCCTC) recently took on a physically and mentally demanding obstacle course designed to test their skills and endurance. Under the leadership of Law Enforcement Instructor James B. McClellan, students gained firsthand experience simulating real-life situations faced by officers in the line of duty.
About the Program and Instructor
Instructor James B. McClellan brings over 23 years of diverse law enforcement experience to the classroom. His career spans roles such as military police officer, investigator, narcotics investigator, K9 handler, and patrol supervisor, among others. McClellan emphasizes giving students an honest look into law enforcement, including its strengths and areas needing improvement.
"My goal is to provide students with a realistic understanding of the role officers play in our communities," McClellan shared. "We study laws, procedures, and even mistakes within law enforcement because you can’t fix problems without addressing them."
The Obstacle Course: A Real-World Test
The course served as the final assessment for the semester, integrating lessons learned in Law Enforcement 1. It simulated high-stress scenarios, requiring students to draw upon physical endurance, mental sharpness, and decision-making skills.
Course Elements:
Foot Chase: Students started with a 50-yard chase from a seated patrol car position.
Fire Sled: This exercise mimicked the physical effort needed during a confrontation with a suspect.
Tunnel Crawl: Students navigated obstacles, simulating conditions during K9 tracking.
Elbow & Knee Strikes: These techniques were practiced as non-lethal options to subdue suspects.
Puzzle Table: Designed to test mental focus and fine motor skills under fatigue.
Modified Physical Ability Test (PAT): Kept heart rates high, encouraging students to push past perceived physical limits.
Open Field Target Engagement: Required quick decision-making on target identification under stress.
Dummy Drag & Handcuffing: Simulated moving an injured civilian or officer to safety and subduing a suspect.
Shoot House: Students navigated a building filled with sound and strobe lights to simulate an active shooter scenario.
The goal of the course was not only to challenge students physically but also to give them a glimpse into the effects of stress on decision-making and physical performance.
Reflection and Learning
After completing the course, students were tasked with writing detailed reports on the event. This exercise reinforced the importance of documenting actions and decisions, a critical skill in law enforcement.
"This program pushes students out of their comfort zones, giving them an appreciation for the challenges officers face," McClellan explained. "They experience the physical and emotional toll of high-stress situations, which helps them understand the responsibilities and pressures of the profession."
Inspiring the Next Generation
Woodland students participating in this program are gaining skills, discipline, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of law enforcement. Thanks to the dedication of Instructor McClellan and DCCTC, they are well-prepared for future pursuits in public safety and criminal justice.
This obstacle course was not just a test but a transformative experience, giving students a true taste of the demands and rewards of a career in law enforcement.