If you are at least 18, live or work in the Village and pass a criminal background check, you may be qualified to attend the Citizens' Police Academy.  Participants learn how and why the Skokie Police Department operates.  The Department offers a 12-week program of instruction and discussion, presented by officers with particular expertise in the respective topics.  Classes are held once a week from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.  This class is similar to the session offered in the fall. The Fall Term (24th Session) started on September 25, 2007 and 21 participants celebrated their graduation on December 18th. Classes provide insight into law enforcement techniques and are geared to assist citizens in understanding laws and police practices/programs. Curricula includes: canine unit, criminal and civil law, crime prevention, juvenile law, evidence, traffic stops, 911 telecommunicatins, use of force, investigations, gangs and drugs, scams and confidence games, etc. There are similarities between the Academy curriculum and the instruction presented to recruit police officers.

Students represent a wide variety of diverse backgrounds, ages and occupations, including students, retirees and working professionals.  The Skokie Police Department believes that the entire community benefits when residents take personal interest in the protection of their neighborhood.  This academy also provides an opportunity for the students to personally know the men and women who protect their community. Additionally, the Department obtains citizen input and develops support throughout the Village. There is no charge to attend the Citizens' Police Academy and materials are provided by the Skokie Police Department. To sign up for the program or if you want further information, please call the Crime Preventin/Community Relations Unit at (847) 982-5919. Applications are now being accepted for the academy that begins on March 5, 2008. Spaces are limited.