The Teen And Police Service Academy (TAPS) was founded in 2011 by the late Chief Brian Lumpkin and Criminologist, Dr. Everette Penn. At the time, the Houston Police Department was granted funds to create a program that would enhance and build a more trusting relationship between teens and police in Houston. Chief Lumpkin, Dr. Penn, and Officer Mott took on this mission and worked collaboratively to build out the TAPS Academy program.

In the Spring of 2012, the first Teen And Police Service Academy was launched at Beechnut Academy, a Houston Independent School District alternative school. Data showed there were dramatic positive behavioral changes between youth and police among those who participated in the program. Now, TAPS Academy is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and has expanded into more than 30 schools nationwide.

A distinct component of the program is that TAPS Academy-trained officers lead the lessons, giving law enforcement and youth a unique chance to get to know each other on equal footing, exchange ideas, and learn together. The curriculum covers a wide range of life-building skills, including drug and alcohol prevention, conflict resolution, mental health awareness, safe driving, and service learning.

In addition, TAPS Academy prepares students for life after high school through its College and Workforce Readiness track, helping them explore four key pathways: college, vocational school, first responders/service careers, or the military.