Citizens Police Academy fosters learning, understanding of community policing

I am a recent proud graduate of the Citizens Police Academy. The purpose of this program is to foster education and understanding of our dedicated police department. This is an ambassador program and I highly encourage any one of any age to check it out.

Every class was so informative and interesting, we often stayed past the three hours because we did not want to quit. We learned and practiced self-defense, traffic stop procedure, explored the SWAT mobile and bomb unit, shot Glocks in simulated scenarios, and learned about polygraphs, canines, dispatch and finger printing. We drove police SUVs at Hawkeye Downs and learned maneuvers. I even got to ride along on a 10-hour shift with Officer McDowell. The officers I was with during that late night shift worked constantly and are highly skilled. Are you aware that the FBI does training with our men and women on the force?

Some of our classmates are applying to go through the true Academy and intend to join the force. Mayor Tiffany O'Donnell also took the course and learned as we did about funding, mental health needs etc.

There are two small classes a year, with the next one being in the spring. Give yourself the gift of learning more about our city's infrastructure and the integrity of our men and women in blue. Stay safe.

Maggie Lakose

Cedar Rapids

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