On September 15, 2020, 30 new Police Officers graduated from the Colorado Springs Police Department’s 71st Academy Class.
“31 years ago, I sat in your same position. Nervous. Excited. Hopeful. And most importantly, ready. Ready to make a difference…ready to serve…ready to finally become a police officer. I hope those same emotions are running through you now. Because believe me when I say, the community is ready for you too,” said Colorado Springs Police Chief Vince Niski.
The newest class underwent 25 weeks – which consisted of 904 hours - of intensive training to become police officers. The first nine weeks of their training consisted of online learning, followed by rigorous hands on training while in compliance with health precautions and guidance. Regardless of the obstacles set in front of them, every new officer passed their POST certification tests and are ready to begin their service to our community. The next 15 weeks will consist of PTO training before they begin responding to calls on their own.
During his speech, Chief Niski told the recruits, “There is nothing like being a police officer. While it can be challenging, it can also be exhilarating. It can be demanding, but also rewarding. Throughout your careers, you will save lives. You will make unbreakable bonds with your fellow officers. You will make a difference. Always be proud of yourselves.”
This class has much to be proud of. Not just in their collective resilience when training in an ever adapting situation, but in the backgrounds and experience they bring forward. Some facts about the class include:
- Collectively, they speak eight difference languages.
- Two have Masters Degrees, 14 have Bachelor’s degrees, three have Associates degrees, and 11 have some college experience.
- Two attended college while in the Academy.
- Two served as Community Service Officers with the CSPD.
- Their ages range from 21 to 45-years-old.
- And lastly, more than half have served in our armed forces. Thank you for your service.
Link to video of graduation https://www.facebook.com/cspdpio/videos/381979899474307/
In 2017, Mayor Suthers and City Council vowed to add 120 police officers to the Colorado Springs Police Department’s force. With this latest graduation, we are now at 77.5% of the way to fulfilling the 120 officer positions.