By Shannon Lukens for Steamboat Radio News/Blizzard Broadcasting.
The deadline to apply for the Citizens Academy with the Steamboat Springs Police Department has been extended to next Tuesday, April 7.
This is an inside look at how things work in local law enforcement. It’s seven weeks, from May 6 through June 17 on Wednesday evenings, starting at 6 p.m. It’s free, and you must be 21 to apply.
You’ll learn about the following:
- Decision Making and Use of Force
- Self Defense Tactics
- Drunk Driving Enforcement
- K9 and Drug Enforcement
- Domestic Violence
- Police Ethics
- Firearms
- Minors in Possession and Juvenile Drinking
- Arrest Control
- Forensics
- Radar Enforcement
- Police Equipment
- Animal & Code Enforcement
- Criminal Justice Records.
Apply by April 7, 2026. Additional information is available at steamboatsprings.net/CitizensAcademy and applications can be submitted online. Selected participants will be notified by April 16, 2026. For questions, contact Patty Oakland at 970-879-4344 or via email.
Press Release from Steamboat Springs Police Department.
SSPD Citizens Academy Steps Behind the Badge
Community Program Applications Open Through Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Steamboat Springs, Colorado-March 3, 2026-Ever wondered what it’s really like to serve and protect in Steamboat Springs? This spring, the Steamboat Springs Police Department is again opening its doors for the Citizens Academy, a unique opportunity to meet the men and women behind the badge and gain firsthand insight into the complexities of modern policing.
“Building trust starts with understanding,” said Chief Mark Beckett. “The Citizens Academy gives residents an inside look at how we work, why we make the decisions we do, and the challenges we face every day. Past participants have called it eye-opening and empowering, and I encourage anyone curious about law enforcement to join us.”
The seven-week program runs May 6 through June 17 from 6pm to 8:30pm, bringing together about a dozen community members for a two and a half-hour session every Wednesday evening at the Combined Law Enforcement Facility. There’s no cost to attend, and all classes are led by experienced police personnel.
While the final curriculum is still being shaped, participants can expect to dive into a variety of engaging topics, which may include:
- Decision Making and Use of Force
- Self Defense Tactics
- Drunk Driving Enforcement
- K9 and Drug Enforcement
- Domestic Violence
- Police Ethics
- Firearms
- Minors in Possession and Juvenile Drinking
- Arrest Control
- Forensics
- Radar Enforcement
- Police Equipment
- Animal & Code Enforcement
- Criminal Justice Records
While most sessions are classroom-based, the academy includes optional hands-on activities for those interested in experiencing aspects of police work up close.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be 21 or older, able to sit for two to three hours in a classroom setting, and willing to undergo a background check. This is an educational program—not a path to employment—but it’s a great way to learn, engage, and strengthen community ties with the Steamboat Springs Police Department.
Apply by April 7, 2026
Additional information is available at steamboatsprings.net/CitizensAcademy and applications can be submitted online. Selected participants will be notified by April 16, 2026. For questions, contact Patty Oakland at 970-879-4344 or via email.
