Citizens Police Academy

The Westminster Police Department hosts the Citizens Police Academy every year in the fall. The class meets every Wednesday night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Westminster Public Safety Center located at 9110 Yates Street. The academy runs for 12 weeks with a graduation ceremony on November 12, 2025. The class is limited to about 30 people and all applicants are subject to a background check.

More information on the 2026 academy will be posted here and on our social media channels when available.

About

The Citizens Police Academy is an engaging and exciting way to gain insight into law enforcement and experience the daily operations within the Westminster Police Department and is designed to build a bond of mutual trust and respect between the Police Department and our citizens. The Citizens Academy offers direct contact with police instructors through lectures, hands-on experience, and demonstrations. 

Topics Covered Include, But Not Limited To The Following:

  • SWAT
  • K9
  • Criminal Law
  • Police Pursuits/Driving
  • Traffic Enforcement/Accident Investigations
  • Arrest Control
  • Investigations
  • Patrol Procedures
  • Police Weapons (including less lethal options)

Participants will have the opportunity to open the lines of communication with the police through questions and honest feedback and will learn the importance of civic awareness and citizen/police cooperation.

Schedule 

We typically host the Police Citizens Academy beginning in the fall of each year. The Police Citizens Academy runs for 13 weeks, including a graduation ceremony the final week. Classes are normally limited to 30 students per class and meet every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Eligibility

Class members must be at least 18 years of age. Preference is given to applicants that live or work in the City of Westminster, however, everyone is encouraged to apply. Applicants are subject to a background check.

Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association

The Westminster Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (WCPAAA) was formed in May 1998. The mission of the association is to enhance relations and public awareness between the community and the Westminster Police Department through continuing education and specialized programs. Events, classes and social gatherings are held throughout the year to strengthen the partnership between the community and the Police Department. Graduates of the Citizens Police Academy are eligible to join the Alumni Association.

Police Teen Academy

The Westminster Police Department, in partnership with the Arvada Police Department, hosts a Police Teen Academy to give teens a behind-the-scenes look at the world of law enforcement. Throughout the week-long program, participants will receive a hands-on experience in crime scene investigations, SWAT and building search tactics, emergency vehicle operations, arrest and control tactics, investigations, patrol procedures and more. Teens between the ages of 15 to 18 who live in the City of Westminster or attend high school in Westminster are encouraged to apply! It is preferred teens have a valid Colorado permit or driver's license. Each student’s G.P.A. and school attendance will be reviewed as part of the selection process.

The 2026 Police Teen Academy application is now open and closes on May 2, 2026. The 2026 academy is schedule for June 1 through June 5. Please see your School Resource Officer for additional questions.

2026 Police Teen Academy Application