Police department launches Citizens Academy
Lake County Leader | Lake County Leader | UPDATED 4 days, 12 hours AGO
The Polson Police Department announces a Citizens Police Academy designed to give community members a firsthand look at modern policing and how officers serve and protect the people of Polson.
The Polson Police Department has announced a Citizens Police Academy built on the principles of P.A.R.T.N.E.R. — Polson Affirms Responsibility, Transparency, Neighborhood Engagement and Respect.
The academy is designed to provide the community with a firsthand look at modern policing and how officers serve and protect the Polson community. The course will be held from April 3 to June 12 on Fridays from 6-8 p.m. and on select Saturdays from 12-4 p.m.
The 34-hour curriculum includes classroom instruction, hands-on demonstrations, real-world training and facility tours, along with direct engagement with department leadership, partner agencies and community organizations.
Participants gain insights into law enforcement decision-making, officer responsibilities, legal frameworks, and the collaborative partnerships that strengthen public safety and community trust, according to a press release from the department.
The new Polson Police Foundation is joining the department as the academy sponsor. The foundation is a local nonprofit established to provide financial support for expenses outside the department's budget.
The course offers a wide variety of core topics such as Montana’s legal system, patrol operations, emergency communications, de-escalation strategies, firearm safety, domestic violence response and victim advocacy
Sessions will be held at the Polson City Hall and New Life Church, with select off-site experiences.
Applicants must be 21 years old, live or work in Polson, have a valid state or tribal ID, have no felony convictions, litigations, or be under current supervised release or probation and be able to successfully pass a background check.
Applications are available at the Polson Police Department or on the website at www.cityofpolson.com/police. They can also be downloaded at the Polson Police Foundation website at www.polsonpolicefoundation.com.
All applications are due by March 16 and should either be dropped off in person or emailed to Joan Hart at [email protected].
Applicants must complete all sessions and actively participate to earn a certificate of completion. They are also expected to maintain respectful conduct to support a productive learning environment.
For further details, call the Polson Police Department at 406-883-8211