Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Police Department has announced it is now accepting applications for its Spring 2026 Community Police Academy, a free program designed to give residents an inside look at local law enforcement operations and community policing efforts.
Applications opened Monday, February 2, and will be accepted through February 27, 2026. The academy is open to community members who are interested in learning more about how the department trains officers, investigates crimes, and serves both residents and visitors across the city.
The nine-week program offers participants a behind-the-scenes experience with the department. According to police officials, attendees will take part in interactive sessions that include immersive driving simulators, live demonstrations of K9 handling, and discussions about day-to-day police work. The goal of the academy is to increase transparency, build trust, and encourage open dialogue between the police department and the community it serves.
In addition to hands-on demonstrations, the Community Police Academy provides an opportunity for participants to engage directly with department personnel. Attendees will be able to ask questions, discuss current issues related to policing, and learn more about the wide range of services provided by the Chattanooga Police Department.
The Spring 2026 academy will be held at the Chattanooga Police Department headquarters, located at 3410 Amnicola Highway in Chattanooga. Classes are scheduled to take place on Thursdays from March 12 through May 7, 2026, with sessions running from approximately 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Officials said the program is open to individuals who are at least 21 years old. Applicants must sign all required documents and successfully pass a background check in order to be accepted into the academy.
Those interested in applying can find additional information and the application form online through the Chattanooga Police Department. Completed applications may also be downloaded and submitted by email to the department’s community outreach office. Police officials emphasized that all applications must be received by February 27 to be considered for the Spring 2026 session.
The Community Police Academy is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with residents and promote a better understanding of modern policing practices within the Chattanooga community.