Winston-Salem Police Department
Citizen's Police Academy
Officer Jonathan Lewis, Coordinator
(336)773-7935 or jlewis@wspd.org
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the academy?
A: Participants will gain knowledge of the training received by the officers of the Winston-Salem Police Department, and a better understanding of the policies and procedures that govern their actions. Also the Department will gain a better perspective of the issues that are important to the citizens.
The academy is not designed to train participants to become police officers. If you are interested in a career as a police officer, please contact our Recruiting Unit.
Q: Is there a charge for this program?
A: No
Q: What are the requirements for attending the CPA?
A: There are 3 basic requirements:
- Must live, work, or attend school in Forsyth County.
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must not have any felony convictions, any misdemeanor convictions within past year, or a history of suspected criminal activity, arrests, or convictions. A background check will be conducted on all applicants.
Q: What is included in the background check?
A: A national and local criminal history check will be performed, along with a check of driving records. Some driving violations will not exclude an individual from attending the CPA, but other violations may.
Q: How often is the CPA offered?
A: The sessions are offered two times a year...one in the spring of the year and one in the fall. When dates have been set for next Academy, announcements will go out to the media, and put on the WSPD website.
Q: How do I apply for the CPA?
A: Online applications are available on this website, or by calling Officer Jonathan Lewis at (336)773-7935 for information and applications.
Q: Where do I park?
A: Information will be provided to all accepted participants showing where to park for the evening classes.
Q: Do I have to be in good physical shape? (Are there weight or height requirements? Do I have to run or jump, etc.?)
A: No, there are no physical requirements; participants will not engage in any physical activities.
Q: Who teaches the classes?
A: Police department instructors, both sworn and civilian will instruct the Academy.
Q: What type of a grade must I maintain? Is there any homework?
A: No grades will be kept. No homework will be assigned.
Q: Will I be dropped from the class if I have to miss some classes?
A: Attendees are expected to attend a minimum of 10 of the 13 sessions. You will not be dropped from the academy if you miss more than 3 sessions, however you will not receive a certificate of completion, nor will you receive maximum benefit from the academy.
Q: Is it possible to ride along with an officer during their shift?
A: Yes, attendees will have an opportunity to ride along with a patrol officer.
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