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Citizens Police Academy

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.  Next class will be in spring 2010, one evening a week for 8 weeks, 6-9 PM

The Palo Alto Police Department welcomes community members to participate in the 24th Citizens’ Police Academy, Level 1.  Level 1 is an eight week course, emphasizing the basic elements of law enforcement. Its main objective is to give participants an overview and better understanding of the police department’s basic functions and operational procedures and role in the community.  

The curriculum offers a no-nonsense approach to police work.  Students learn about the Palo Alto police organization, study how to become a police officer for Palo Alto, experience first-hand a patrol officer’s shift, understand how crimes are investigated, use a firearms simulator for "Shoot, Don’t Shoot" scenarios, hear how an internal affairs investigation are conducted and work with our special radio communication dispatchers.  This is a rare opportunity for students to explore the world of law enforcement in an interactive environment.

The majority of the classes will be held at the Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto.  Class size is limited to 20 students.  Friends and family are invited to attend the graduation on the last night of class.

All Citizens’ Police Academy graduates (must attend all 8 evenings) will be invited to attend Level 2, advanced classes such as Evidence Collection, Sexual Assault Investigations, Fraud & Financial Crimes, SWAT, Canine Team, Traffic & DUI Enforcement and Stress Management in Law Enforcement.  Approximately 4 – 6 advanced classes are offered throughout the year.

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

             -Minimum age of 16 years (under 18 must have parental consent)

            -Live, work or be connected to the Palo Alto community

            -No prior felony convictions

            -No misdemeanor convictions within one year of application

            -Interview and pass background check

APPLY NOW!

Get an application at the Palo Alto Police Department, 275 Forest Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301

Download an application

Fax completed application form to 650-329-2565.

Contact the academy coordinator, Susie Ord at 650-329-2632.




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City of Palo Alto City Hall - 250 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301 | Main Telephone Number 650-329-2100 8am-5pm M-Th, Alt Fridays