Goal and Mission Statement

The Citizens Police Academy is designed to educate the community about the structure and activities of the Gardner Police Department, and the many aspects of police work.  The academy is designed to give the participants exposure to various police situations, and to explain how and why officers respond to and handle different situations.  This will be accomplished through both classroom instruction and practical exercises that will allow you to assume the role of an officer.

The academy will give the participants the opportunity to see the benefits of public service and learn about the challenges and demands associated with Law Enforcement as a profession.  Participants will learn about special units and what their responsibilities are, and how they work together with the patrol officers. 

We believe the academy will be an enjoyable introduction to policing and its vital role within our community.  Our participants will gain a better understanding of law enforcement and the incredible risks and responsibility our officers accept in keeping all citizens safe.

The ultimate goal of the Citizens Police Academy is to improve the relationships between law enforcement and our citizens, while exposing the participants to taste of the training it takes to begin and maintain a career in law enforcement and the challenges officers face daily.

The 9-week course will be held once a year with manpower permitting twice a year, Classes are  held once a week beginning at 6 pm until 9 pm that evening. 

Academy Topics

Overview of  patrol operations and procedures, traffic stops, traffic crash investigations, crime scene investigations, utilization of our K9 team, tours of the Johnson County Adult Detention Center and Emergency Communications Center, The School Resource Officer Program, Firearms safety and qualifications, Domestic Violence, TASER with an overview non-lethal and lethal force.

Gardner Citizens Police Academy Application