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1. What is the purpose of the Academy?

Participants will gain knowledge of the training received by the officers of the Winston­-Salem Police Department, and a better understanding of the policies and procedures that govern their actions. Also the Department will gain a better perspective of the issues that are important to the citizens.

The Academy is not designed to train participants to become police officers. If you are interested in a career as a police officer, please contact our Recruiting Unit.

2. Is there a charge for this program?

No.

3. What are the minimum requirements for attending the Citizen's Police Academy?

There are 3 basic requirements:

1. Must live, work, or attend school in Forsyth County.
2. Must be 18 years of age or older.
3. Must not have any felony convictions, any misdemeanor convictions within past year, or a history of suspected criminal activity, arrests, or convictions. A background check will be conducted on all applicants.

Approval is at the sole discretion of the agency and is designed to serve the best interests of the agency.

4. What is included in the background check?

A national and local criminal history check will be performed, along with a check of driving records. Some driving violations will not exclude an individual from attending the Citizen's Police Academy, but other violations may.

5. How often is the Citizen Police Academy offered?

The sessions are offered once a year in the spring. When dates have been set for next Academy, announcements will go out to the media, and put on the Winston-Salem Police Department website.

6. How do I apply for the Citizen's Police Academy?

Online applications are available on this website, or by calling Officer R.T. Hawkins at 336-416-5816 for information and applications.

7. Where do I park?

Information will be provided to all accepted participants showing where to park for the evening classes.

8. Do I have to be in good physical shape? (Are there weight or height requirements? Do I have to run or jump, etc.?)

No, there are no physical requirements; participants will not engage in any physical activities.

9. Who teaches the classes?

Police department instructors, both sworn and civilian will instruct the Academy.

10. What type of a grade must I maintain? Is there any homework?

No grades will be kept. No homework will be assigned.

11. Will I be dropped from the class if I have to miss some classes?

Attendees are expected to attend a minimum of 10 of the 13 sessions. You will not be dropped from the academy if you miss more than 3 sessions, however you will not receive a certificate of completion, nor will you receive maximum benefit from the academy.

12. Is it possible to ride along with an officer during their shift?

Due to the pandemic (COVID-19) ride along with a patrol officer has been temporarily suspended.