Citizens' Police Academy

Programs

Download the Citizens' Police Academy flyer.

The Citizens' Police Academy is designed to provide citizens with a better understanding of The University of Texas System Police Department at SFA's operations and community policing philosophy. Classes will be held once a week from 3 to 5 p.m. on the SFA campus. This course will cover topics such as criminal investigations, patrol operations, telecommunications and more. Classes will consist of lectures and hands-on demonstrations, and there will be an opportunity to sign up for a ride-along.

The purpose of the program is to provide insight into the responsibilities of a university police department and the measures taken to prevent, deter and respond to criminal and non-criminal activities. In addition, the program is designed to enhance communication and create long-term meaningful partnerships with the students, staff, faculty and supporters of this institution. Citizens' Police Academy graduates are encouraged to share their knowledge with the community and become ambassadors for the organization.

Fall 2023 - Class 3 Dates

Dates: Classes will be held on the following Wednesdays:

  • October 4, 11, 18 and 25
  • November 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
  • December 6

Time: 3 to 5 p.m.
Location: Cole STEM Building, Room 201

How to Apply

If you are willing to make a commitment and become an involved citizen, we encourage you to apply. Mail or email the completed waiver and application to:

The University of Texas System Police Department at SFA
Erika Sanchez Garza or Whitney Mask
P.O. Box 13062
232 East College St.
Nacogdoches, Texas 75962-3062

936.468.2607
Fax: 936.468.3984
Erika.Garza@sfasu.edu 
Whitney.Howell@sfasu.edu 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicant must be at least 17 years of age.
  • Applicant may be a student, faculty or staff member of SFA and/or a Nacogdoches County resident.
  • Background check: No person with a Class A misdemeanor or higher conviction, including a family violence conviction, shall be allowed to attend the class. A Class B misdemeanor conviction has a 10-year disqualification period. All disqualifiers shall remain concurrent to and consistent with the Texas  Department of Public Safety’s TCIC/TLETS access policy, or any additional policy amendments.
  • You will be automatically disqualified if you have any outstanding warrants, pending court dates in either municipal, state or federal courts, or a conviction of the following: issuance of bad check, public lewdness, theft or any other crime of “moral turpitude.” You will not be allowed to attend the academy until such warrants are cleared and all cases are adjudicated.
  • All applicants will be interviewed via phone and will receive an acceptance phone call, so be sure to provide the best number(s) to contact. All other correspondence and updates will be by email.