Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Community Academy?

Community Academy is an educational program for community members to learn about their local police department and various facets of law enforcement. It is a mix of classroom-style presentations, hands on activities, scenarios and case studies.

Can anyone participate in Community Academy?

Community Academy is open to any member of the public who is 18 or older, resides or works in Forest Grove, is able to commit to regular attendance, and has no criminal record.

Is Community Academy only for people who want to work in law enforcement?

No, Community Academy is a program hosted by the Forest Grove Police for the purpose of educating the public about the FGPD and law enforcement, it is not affiliated with the police academy or part of the hiring process.

What is the time commitment for Community Academy?

 Community Academy is every Wednesday night from 6-9 pm. starting February 4 running through April 15.

There is no class on March 25 due to spring break.

There is no outside reading or homework.

What topics will be discussed in the FGPD Community Academy?

The FGPD Academy covers hiring and training, patrol procedures, investigations, traffic enforcement, special teams and assignments (crash reconstruction, mobile field force, school resource officer, drones, etc.), search and seizure, DUII, gangs, use of force, drugs, mental health and crisis intervention, domestic violence, officer wellness, code enforcement, and communications /public information. There will also be multiple case studies. 

Does Community Academy involve any sort of grades, homework, or exams?

No, Community Academy is not a graded or pass/fail course, there are no exams and no homework. Notes from sessions may be provided, and participants are welcome to take their own notes during presentations for their own benefit.

Does Community Academy cost anything?

No, the Community Academy course, application, and materials are free.

Do I have to attend every session?

We request that attendees commit to all nine weeks. We understand, though, that life happens and do allow up to two absences. All participants must attend week one. The course is structured such that content covered early on builds the foundation for later sessions.

Are there physical requirements for Community Academy such as running or lifting?

No, Community Academy does not have any physical requirements. There are activities that may involve walking or standing, however accommodations can be made for those who may need assistance.

Can I just drop in to check it out? 

No. Registration is required to participate in Community Academy and the course is meant to be taken in its entirety. We require that participants be willing to commit to the ten weeks to the best of their ability.

What kinds of hands-on activities are there?

If they so choose, participants will have an opportunity to check out patrol equipment, try on a carrier vest, practice using handcuffs, experience the WRAP restraint device, deploy a TASER, and participate in a shoot/don’t shoot scenario - as well as take field sobriety tests, practice a traffic stop, and tour the station. Participation in these is not required.

Do we really get to solve a murder?

Not exactly - but you’ll be following along with detectives as they walk through their investigations into two different homicide cases here in Forest Grove, which will include reviewing clues, photographs, and interviews. Case studies on an attempted homicide and a 2024 crime spree will also be presented.

I don’t like cops. Can I still take the class?

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Community Academy is a great opportunity to ask hard questions, meet officers in more casual environment, and gain a better understanding of how and why we do what we do.

I have questions and want more information. Who should I talk to?

We’re happy to answer! Contact our Community Outreach Specialist at Lquinsland@forestgrove-or.gov or 503-992-3104. You can also reach us through the FGPD Facebook page.