Corpus Christi (KIII News) — A group of 20 ordinary citizens graduated Thursday evening from the Citizen's Police Academy.
The Citizen's Police Academy is a program that allows civilians to get a better understanding of what officers do on a daily basis.
According to organizers of the Citizens Police Academy, the program helps to create trust between police and civilian. The program is a tie that strengthens the community when it comes to public safety.
The 13-week course teaches students about different parts of the police department from the business side, dispatching, and the equipment they use.
The students are given hands-on exercises to understand how an officer helps the community in any situation.
Citizens can also interact with officers which is meant to break down the barriers between civilians and the police.
"We all need to learn what things are about so that we can really have an opinion so we can really share with others what the real story is what the real truth is," graduate Kathy Ordner said.
Graduates become goodwill ambassadors for the police department.
After learning what officers face on a daily basis in making decisions graduates can better appreciate their service and can better understand safety issues and even offer solutions.
The next class will start at the end of February 2019. If you would like more information click here.
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