What Happens Inside St. Cloud's Ten-week Citizens Police Academy

We all have opinions about law enforcement, but how many of us really understand what goes into becoming a police officer? The answer might surprise you.

The St. Cloud area is once again opening its doors to curious community members through the Metro Citizens Police Academy. It's a unique opportunity to learn directly from the officers who serve our neighborhoods every day.

THE METRO CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY

Every other week on WJON, I have the opportunity to visit with Tad Hoeschen from the St. Cloud Police Department. One of my favorite things about those conversations is learning about the many ways local law enforcement connects with the community outside of answering emergency calls. Programs like this one are designed to build understanding, answer questions, and give residents a firsthand look at modern policing.

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10-WEEK PROGRAM

The Metro Citizens Police Academy isn't about turning citizens into police officers. Instead, it's an opportunity to better understand the job, the training, and the many decisions officers make every single day. Participants spend ten weeks learning directly from area law enforcement professionals through classroom instruction and hands-on experiences.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AND WHERE

The 2026 academy begins Thursday, September 10th, and continues through November 12th, 2026. Classes are held Thursday evenings from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. at various police departments and locations throughout the St. Cloud metro area.

EXPLORE A WIDE VARIETY OF TOPS

Throughout the academy, participants explore a wide variety of topics that police officers study during their own training. You'll learn about community policing, ethics, constitutional law, criminal law, traffic enforcement, local ordinances, interpersonal communication, human diversity, domestic crisis intervention, patrol procedures, investigations, crime scene processing, specialized units, and much more.

REALISTIC TRAINING SCENARIOS

There are also opportunities to experience some of the practical aspects of police work. Participants can learn about defensive tactics, the use of force, vehicle stops, emergency driving concepts, firearms training, and realistic training scenarios. It's a chance to better understand not only what officers do, but why they make certain decisions during stressful situations.

OPENING THE DOOR TO MORE CONVERSATIONS

One thing I especially appreciate about this program is that it encourages honest conversations. Across the country, policing has become the subject of many important discussions. The academy doesn't shy away from those conversations. Instead, participants are encouraged to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the policies, training, equipment, and real-life circumstances officers encounter while serving our communities.

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LEARN HOW AGENCIES WORK WITH THE JUSTICE SYSTEM

The program also offers insight into what happens after an arrest, including the prosecution of criminal cases and how different agencies work together throughout the justice system. By the end of the academy, participants have a much broader understanding of law enforcement than they did on day one.

IT'S TIME TO GET REGISTERED NOW

Space is limited, so those interested are encouraged to register early. To participate, applicants must be at least 21 years old, live within the St. Cloud city limits, and complete a criminal background check before being accepted into the program.

Participants who complete all ten weeks receive a certificate of completion presented by the Chief of Police during the final session.

CREATING UNDERSTANDING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY

If you've ever been curious about what life behind the badge is really like, this may be one of the most interesting learning experiences available in Central Minnesota. Whether you simply want a better understanding of policing, have questions you've always wanted answered, or just enjoy learning more about your community, the Metro Citizens Police Academy offers a rare opportunity to see law enforcement from a completely different perspective.

CLASS SIZE LIMITED

Registration for the 2026 Metro Citizens Police Academy is now open, and with class sizes limited, you won't want to wait too long if you'd like to participate. Click HERE to get registered.