The State College, Penn State, Ferguson Township, and Patton Township police departments are inviting students and local residents to take part in their Centre County Citizens’ Police Academy this fall.

The academy is a free, nine-session program designed to offer locals a look behind the badge and to provide information about training and policies. The primary objective of the citizens’ academy is to foster a better relationship between the community and their local law enforcement officers.

Through the program, citizens will become more informed about police services, police activity, and police conduct in certain situations. On the flip side, the police benefit by becoming more aware of the community they’re serving and interacting with concerned residents.

Classes themselves may include sessions all of the following topics:

• Defensive Tactics / Use of Force
• PSU/SCPD Bomb Squad
• PSU K-9 Unit
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC)
• Firearms
• Tactical Response Team (TRT)
• Police Scenarios
• Department of Public Safety Communications (911 call center)
• Centre County Court System
• Ride-Alongs

All State College Borough, College Township, Harris Township, Ferguson Township, and Patton Township residents, as well as all students, are invited to participate. However, the class size is limited to 30 students.

Candidates from diverse ethnic backgrounds, cultural backgrounds, orientations, age groups, communities, and professions are encouraged to apply. The academy wants to enrich class discussions and strengthen community relationships by taking a more inclusive approach to the class dynamic.

If you’re interested in the program itself, more information is available here.