By: SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Huntsville residents will have the opportunity to step inside local law enforcement this spring as the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) opens applications for its Spring 2026 Citizens Police Academy.
The program offers community members a behind-the-scenes look at how HPD operates, aiming to strengthen trust, transparency, and communication between police officers and the public they serve. Through a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on demonstrations, participants will learn about departmental structure, policies, and day-to-day policing in Huntsville.
“The Citizens Police Academy gives you a front-row seat to the work we do every day to protect and serve,” said HPD Chief Kirk Giles. “It’s a rare opportunity to step inside our world, ask questions, and see firsthand how trust and teamwork keep Huntsville safe.”
Classes will be held weekly at the Huntsville Public Safety Training Academy, located at 5365 Triana Blvd. The nine-week session will run from Tuesday, March 24, through May 26, with classes meeting every Tuesday evening from 6 to 9 p.m.
The Citizens Police Academy is open to individuals who are at least 19 years old, live or work within the City of Huntsville, and successfully complete a background check. Applicants must have no prior felony convictions, no outstanding warrants, and no pending criminal cases.
HPD officials say the program is designed not only to educate participants about law enforcement practices, but also to foster meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding between officers and the community.
The deadline to apply is Friday, Feb. 6. Interested individuals can find additional information and submit an application through the Huntsville Police Department’s official website.
HPD encourages residents from all backgrounds to apply and take part in this unique opportunity to learn, engage, and help build a safer Huntsville together.