Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What exactly is the Citizen’s Police Academy?
2. How long does it last?
3. What is taught?
4. Is it mainly classroom training?
5. Are there any requirements to apply?
6. How often are classes presented?
7. Do I have to be at every class?
8. What if I miss a class?
9. What is the cost to attend?
10. Will this make me a police officer?
11. How do I apply?
What exactly is the Citizen’s Police Academy?
The Citizen’s Police Academy was created by the FSPD in 1998 to give members of the community who are curious about their police department a firsthand look at the rules, regulations, and procedures FSPD employees adhere to. This creates a better awareness of how the police department works and reduces any preconceived ideas and/or feelings about law enforcement.
How long does it last?
The CPA is an eleven week program in which the community and police officers can meet in a friendly atmosphere to learn more about law enforcement and the people behind the badge. Participants meet one night a week from 6-9pm to learn about a different section of the police department. The eleventh week is a graduation dinner where participants will receive a certificate of attendance and participate in a question and answer session with the Chief of Police.
What is taught?
Each week law enforcement officers from FSPD as well as civilian instructors present their jobs to the participants and how it contributes to the overall safety of the community. Crime Prevention tips and suggestions are also given to reduce victimization within the community.
Is it mainly classroom training?
Some of it is conducted in the classroom, but there are many activities that are hands-on, meaning you will get the opportunity to perform a lot of the tasks that the officers do. This includes an opportunity to ride along with a patrol officer during the shift of your choice.
Are there any requirements to apply?
Applicants must be 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and free of felony or certain misdemeanor convictions. Due to the sensitive nature of some of the topics, applicants will be subjected to a limited background check to determine their suitability. The check will be limited to criminal history and warrant information. The information WILL NOT be used for any other purposes nor shared with any other persons or entity.
How often are classes presented?
It is the goal of the FSPD to provide a Citizens Police Academy twice a year, one in the spring and one in the fall. Unforeseen circumstances may require FSPD to cancel a class at the discretion of the Chief of Police; however, notification will be given prior to that occurrence.
Do I have to be at every class?
We understand things happen and you may not be able to attend a class night. Due to the high demand for attendance, however, we ask that you commit to attending 70% of the classes.
What if I miss a class?
If you miss a class session, CPA graduates are eligible to attend the missed session during the following class. All that is required is to notify the CPA Coordinator at least a week prior of your planned attendance.
What is the cost to attend?
There is absolutely no cost to attend the CPA! Upon induction into the class, you will be provided with class materials. The only potential costs to you are optional and include having dinner prior to class from local businesses and purchasing an academy shirt through the CPA Alumni Association.
Will this make me a police officer?
No. This program is designed to present information on what the police department actually does and provide a forum to allow constructive interaction between the police department and the citizens it serves. The academy graduates will not become police officers, but hopefully they, along with the officers, will work through any misconceptions created from a lack of understanding. This can lead to a community-wide proactive stance against crime.
How do I apply?
If you are interested in attending a Citizens Police Academy click on the “Apply Now” tab on our home page and complete an application.