The following is a press release from the city of Maple Valley.

Applications are now being accepted for the popular Community Police Academy (CPA). Space is limited and fills up quickly. Applications will be accepted until all spaces are filled.

The King County Sheriff’s Office and the cities of Maple Valley and Covington are working cooperatively to help the community gain a better understanding of police operations through education and interaction with law enforcement officers. The CPA is provided to our community members at no cost to the participants.

The CPA classes will be held every Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m., starting March 28 and concluding on May 30.

Graduates of the CPA have historically gained a better understanding of the law enforcement role in the criminal justice system, and an appreciation for the many challenges facing law enforcement in today’s complex society.

An academy alumni shared, “I would recommend the Academy to ANYONE who is interested in learning more about how the various departments of law enforcement work to make our community a better place to live. Not one of the instructors “phoned-in” their presentation — the dedication and expertise of each and every speaker was apparent. The course, as it is laid out now, is amazing — from the hands-on instruction to the field trips to the in-class presentations — ALL served very well to give the students an exceptionally immersive experience to the many facets of law enforcement. I think this type of community education is important and should continue for years to come. I thank you for the privilege of attending this excellent citizen’s course.”

The CPA includes classroom-based instruction as well as hands on learning about law enforcement. A few of the courses covered include Patrol Procedures, De-Escalation, Firearms, Narcotics, K-9, Major Crimes Investigations, and Personal Safety.

The three police agencies share in operation and funding of the academy as a vital way to connect with community members.

The agencies will also attempt to balance enrollment among the community members of Maple Valley, Covington, and unincorporated King County. President’s Award for Environmental Leadership by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.

Again, space for this free academy is limited. Due to the amount of planning that goes into this program and the limited number of students, we ask those applying to dedicate themselves to the 10-weeks, along with a couple Saturday field trips.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and are subject to a background check prior to acceptance.

Applications may be downloaded at www.maplevalleywa.gov/academy and are available on the Maple Valley Police Department Facebook page (@maplevalleypolice). You may also pick up applications at the following locations:

• Maple Valley Police Department 22017 SE Wax Rd, Suite #100 Maple Valley, WA 98038
• King County Sheriff’s Office/Precinct 3 22300 SE 231st Street Maple Valley, WA 98038
• Covington Police Department 16720 SE 271st Ave., Suite #100 Covington, WA 98042

For more information about the 2019 Community Police Academy, please contact Robin Larsen, 425-413-5158 or Micki Christensen at 206-477-6428.