ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The Elk Grove Police Department is inviting residents and local workers to apply for its Citizens’ Academy, a hands-on educational program designed to provide a deeper understanding of the department’s role and responsibilities within the community.

The Citizens’ Academy is a multiweek program that introduces participants to the many facets of municipal policing while emphasizing partnership and transparency. Through classroom instruction and interactive demonstrations, participants gain insight into patrol operations, investigations, vehicle operations, arrest and control techniques, 911 communications and code enforcement.

Classes meet Tuesday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Elk Grove Police Department and are offered at no cost. The upcoming session begins Feb. 3 and runs for 11 weeks. The department hosts two academies each year, typically in the spring and fall.

According to the department, the primary goal of the Citizens’ Academy is to strengthen relationships between officers and the community they serve by fostering a clearer understanding of police roles, services and decision-making.

Participants are also encouraged to collaborate with the department and provide constructive feedback to help shape future classes.

The program is open to individuals 18 and older who live or work in Elk Grove, have an interest in police services and have no felony convictions. All applicants must successfully complete a background check prior to acceptance.

Each class is limited to 25 participants to ensure meaningful interaction with officers and staff. In addition to classroom learning, participants receive a behind-the-scenes look at specialized units including K9, CSI, investigations and the department’s Real Time Information Center.

Residents interested in applying can find more information and submit an application at bit.ly/3NcGwcP.