Gilmer Student Ashlee Finnegan Advances to Statewide Law Enforcement Competition
TVAH junior secures first place in Misdemeanor Traffic Stop, prepares for Houston showdown next month
Ashlee Finnegan holding her first place award at the TXPSTA competition.
Ashlee Finnegan, an 11th-grade student at Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH), wins first place at the TXPSTA Region 4 competition in the Misdemeanor Traffic Stop category on Dec. 14, 2024.
The Texas Public Service Teacher Association (TXPSTA) organizes the competition to test and prepare high school students for careers in law enforcement, firefighting, corrections, legal and emergency medical services. Ashlee, who has both autism and dyslexia, enjoys training under Mr. Castro, a veteran police officer of 33 years. With his help, Ashlee learns how to complete a traffic stop, properly dress like an officer, write a citation and more.
After months of training, Ashlee is advancing to the State competition in Houston in February, where she will compete against 18 other students.
Had the pleasure of meeting this young lady and her proud grandmother at our monthly meeting of the Upshur County Crime Stoppers. We are very proud to support her effort and thankful that one of our members, Constable James Casey is also mentoring her in her goals. Congratulations