Ajax families with kids heading into Grade 5 this fall have a chance to let their children lead the Durham Regional Police Service for a day, thanks to the return of the annual Police Chief for a Day contest. The Durham Regional Police Service has launched the 22nd edition of the contest, asking students to write a short essay about what they would do if they were in charge.
Students entering Grade 5 in September 2026 at any school in Durham Region, including Ajax, are eligible. To enter, they need to write a maximum 500-word essay answering the question: “What would you do if you were Police Chief for a day?” The deadline for entries is Monday, September 14, 2026.
The winning student will get a behind-the-scenes look at policing, including being sworn in as Chief for a Day on Tuesday, October 28, 2026. They will receive a full DRPS uniform, tour different police units, and meet officers from across the service. The winner will also attend the Police Appreciation Dinner and Awards Night as a guest of honour on October 22, and take part in major DRPS events throughout the year, like the Food and Toy Drive and Police Week.
Chief Peter Moreira, who has led the DRPS since March 2023, will host the young chief for the day. The contest has been a tradition since 2005, giving kids a unique way to share their ideas for making the community safer and stronger.
Entries can be submitted online at the DRPS application form or emailed to [email protected]. For more details, families can contact Constable Stefanie Puckrin at 1-888-579-1520 extension 1745.
