Kirkland Community Police Academy Returns this Fall

Published on August 14, 2026

Graphic with text inviting community members to attend police academy with photos of previous participants interacting with hands-on police activities

Media Contact:
Officer Tiffany Trombley
Neighborhood Resource Officer & PIO
KPDPIO@kirklandwa.gov

Kirkland, WA – Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at the Kirkland Police Department? KPD’s 2026 Community Police Academy gives community members a firsthand look at how local law enforcement works through an eight-week, hands-on program.

“Transparency and trust are essential to strong relationships between our community and the people who serve it,” said Councilmember Shilpa Prem. “The Community Police Academy gives community members the opportunity to get an inside look at the services, policies and practices that shape public safety in Kirkland.”

Each week, participants will explore a different area of policing, including patrol, investigations, K9, SWAT and more. Along the way, they’ll take part in hands-on activities, training scenarios and a mock crime scene while learning directly from the officers and professional staff who do this work every day.

“The Community Police Academy is as much about building relationships as it is about learning about police work,” said Police Chief Mike St. Jean. “It gives our team and community members a chance to connect, have conversations, and learn from one another.”

The 2026 Community Police Academy runs Wednesday evenings from September 16 through November 4, from 6 to 9 p.m. Classes are held at the Kirkland Police Department and other locations depending on the week’s activities.

The academy is free, but space is limited to 20 participants. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, live or work in Kirkland, have no prior felony convictions, and be able to commit to attending the eight-week program.

To apply, submit an online application by 12 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. KPD will review applications and complete a background check before selecting participants. Applicants will be notified by email or phone if they are accepted.

Learn more about the Kirkland Community Police Academy on the City of Kirkland website.

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