18 Graduate from North Reading Police Department’s Second Annual Citizens Academy

NORTH READING —  Chief Mark A. Zimmerman is pleased to announce that 18 North Reading residents successfully completed the eight-session North Reading Citizens Police Academy (CPA) last week.

Classes were held each Tuesday evening from March 10 through May 5 with a one-week break in April. This marks the second year the North Reading Police Department has offered the program to the public.

“We are proud to celebrate the graduation of our second Citizens Police Academy class and recognize the commitment each participant made to better understanding the work of the North Reading Police Department,” said Chief Zimmerman. “Programs like this strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community by fostering transparency, communication, and mutual trust. We appreciate the time and engagement shown by this outstanding group of residents, and we look forward to continuing to build these important partnerships throughout our community.”

The department received 24 application submissions over a period of several weeks in the winter. Priority enrollment was given to North Reading residents. The academy began with a full class of 20 participants, with 18 completing the program.

Among the graduates were three North Reading High School students, two Criminal Justice students from Merrimack College, and a local business owner. Participants ranged in age from 16 to 82. One student shared, “This was a great way to see inside what our police department does. I enjoyed each class, and all of the presenters were very informative.”

Course content was developed using feedback from the previous year’s academy, participant evaluations, and community interest. Weekly topics included officer and public mental health, firearms regulations and training requirements, substance use, and cybercrime investigations. The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office also hosted an information session, highlighting rehabilitation programs and conducting a K-9 demonstration.

Graduates of the program were additionally invited to participate in an optional two-hour ride-along with a North Reading Police officer.

Chief Zimmerman thanked the graduates for their dedication to the program. “Each year, we want to provide an even better experience and ensure the time participants spend away from their families is worthwhile,” he said. 

Chief Zimmerman also recognized the 17 North Reading officers and staff members, along with three members from the Sheriff’s Office, who contributed to the academy’s success.

“This team effort was once again led by Lieutenant Derek Howe,” Chief Zimmerman said. “Our goal was for every officer and staff member involved to demonstrate their knowledge, professionalism, high standards, and the human side of policing. Based on participant feedback, we believe we achieved that goal.”

One participant commented, “I learned that our police are incredibly sophisticated and compassionate — not only toward the community, but toward one another as well.”