A Cape Henlopen High School senior has completed his internship with the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, marking the end of an eight-month learning experience. Dale Edwards finished his time with the department on Wednesday, May 27, after starting the program in September.
Edwards managed to juggle his internship responsibilities with his academic schedule, working at the police department two to three days weekly. He often arrived early in the morning before returning to school for afternoon classes.
The police department has maintained its internship program since 2013, focusing on providing students with substantial learning opportunities. According to Internship Coordinator Lt. Will Sullivan, the approach goes beyond basic office tasks.
“These students won’t learn by answering phones,” Sullivan explained. “This is a position where they interact with officers and administration, 911 staff, and other support agencies.”
The program operates as a genuine “student-in-training” experience. Following an initial orientation period, participants work in various departments including Criminal Investigations, Community Outreach, Records, Patrol, Policies & Procedures, Property & Evidence, Administration & Budgeting, Communications, and Outside Agencies.
Edwards appreciated the diverse experiences the internship offered. “There was so much different stuff I got to do, including ride-alongs. But all in all, the best part was the people. They are great officers, and I had a great lieutenant,” he said.
While his father, RBPD Sgt. Ray Edwards, works at the same department, Dale emphasized that family connection wasn’t his motivation for choosing this internship. He pointed to Cape Henlopen High School’s Work-Based Learning (WBL) program as the key factor in his preparation and career exploration during high school.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but this was something I could see myself doing in a few years and as a career,” Edwards noted. “Overall, it’s an incredible program. Basically, any job you’d be interested in has an internship.”
Lt. Sullivan praised the partnership with the school’s WBL program, conducting regular evaluations and maintaining communication with WBL Coordinator Garnet Rhue. “They’ve all been really good kids to work with,” Sullivan said. “They all come recommended by the school. They’re goal‑oriented students.”
The department has already selected next year’s intern, and Sullivan mentioned that many former participants maintain contact with the department. Several have pursued careers in law enforcement or related support positions.
Edwards has graduation scheduled for June 2, and his colleagues at the police department helped him practice his ceremonial walk by rehearsing in the station corridors. His summer plans include working in North Shores before enrolling at Delaware Tech to earn an associate degree in business and finance, with aspirations of joining law enforcement. He’s also considering returning next summer as a seasonal officer.
Lt. Sullivan expressed enthusiasm about that possibility. “It’s been nice working with him. He has a great personality. He’s going to go very far,” he said.
