Starting in April, the Renton Police Department will kick off its seven-week Community Police Academy, designed to educate community members on their city’s police department.

“The program encourages participants to offer invaluable feedback, which is essential for fostering improved police and community relations,” said a Renton police news release.

Beginning April 23 and concluding on June 4, this weekly program will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Renton City Hall.

Topics and experiences gained from this program will include patrol operation, traffic and animal control, use of force, special enforcement team, SWAT, 911 and police response, police ride along, firearms training simulations, mock scenes, drones and a graduation ceremony.

Attendees must be at least 18 years old, and must attend at least six of the seven classes. A background check will be required for a ride-along.

Applications are due Friday, March 15, and can be found at rentonwa.gov/cpa.

Community Police Academy applications can be hand delivered to Stephanie Hynes of the Renton Police Department, emailed to shynes@rentonwa.gov or mailed to Renton Police Department, Attn.: Stephanie Hynes, 1055 South Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057.