The Basic Law Enforcement Training Academy will challenge you physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Use the time before your start date to set yourself up for success.
The checklist below covers everything you should be thinking about and doing right now.
Get Your Home Life Situated
Long days are coming. Establishing a solid routine before the academy starts will make a significant difference.
Start waking up early and going to bed at a consistent time
Organize your schedule for laundry, chores, and meal preparation
Coordinate family time and childcare arrangements
Create a dedicated study space at home
Talk with your family about the time commitment ahead
Prepare to Be Uncomfortable
Growth happens outside your comfort zone. You will face situations that push your limits — and that is by design.
Expect to participate in physical scenarios and hands-on activities
Be prepared to share vulnerable moments with classmates
You will experience a range of emotions during training
You will meet with agency administrators and leadership
You will receive corrections and constructive criticism — embrace it
Prepare to See Challenging Situations
As a future first responder, you will be exposed to difficult and sometimes graphic scenarios designed to prepare you for the realities of the job.
Simulated and real-life emergency situations
Medical emergencies involving injuries, blood, and trauma
Scenarios with unconscious or distressed individuals
Content that may trigger strong emotional responses
You Will Work With People From Diverse Backgrounds
Your classmates and instructors will bring different experiences, perspectives, and approaches. Lean into that.
Expect varied problem-solving styles and communication methods
Embrace different cultures, values, and life experiences
Learn from those who have come from different careers and backgrounds
Adapt to instructors with varying levels of field and teaching experience
Think of this diversity as preparation for your future agency
Customs and Courtesies
Professionalism and respect are non-negotiable in law enforcement — and that starts on Day 1.
Address instructors and staff appropriately
Follow chain of command protocols
Practice showing respect in both your communication and your behavior
If you have a military background, many customs will feel familiar
If this is new to you, consider reading up on professional conduct beforehand
Physical Fitness Preparation
The academy is physically demanding. Arriving in good shape will maximize your performance and reduce your risk of injury.
Begin or maintain a regular fitness routine now
Focus on cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility
Practice running, push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups
Be prepared for defensive tactics training and physical fitness testing
Even moderate activity now will make a meaningful difference
Financial Planning
Plan ahead so financial stress doesn't become a distraction during training.
Calculate your daily transportation costs
Budget for uniforms, equipment, and supplies not provided by the program
Plan for meals if you'll be eating on campus
Build in a cushion for unexpected expenses
Understand that your outside work schedule may be limited during training
Reliable Transportation
Attendance is critical. A transportation problem is not an acceptable excuse for being late or absent.
Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before the academy starts
Complete any needed maintenance now
Have a backup transportation plan ready
Know your route and how long it takes during morning traffic
Plan to arrive early — not just on time
Study Expectations
This is not high school. The volume of material is substantial and the standards are high.
Plan to study regularly outside of class hours
Learn active note-taking techniques
You will cover laws, codes, procedures, and case law
Identify your learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) and lean into it
Try different study methods: rewriting notes, flashcards, study groups
Take ownership of your learning — ask questions when you don't understand
Technology and Computer Basics
You will use technology throughout the academy. Don't wait until Day 1 to figure it out.
Ensure you have reliable internet access at home
Familiarize yourself with email and basic file management
Be prepared to use Moodle, our learning management system
Know how to submit assignments electronically
Have a backup plan if your technology fails
Reach out early if you need help with computer skills
Professional Social Media Presence
What you post online reflects on you and your future agency — now and for the rest of your career.
Review all of your social media accounts today
Delete any inappropriate content, photos, or comments
Make personal accounts private
Consider what a future employer would see if they searched your name
Think carefully before posting anything during or after the academy
Law enforcement officers are held to high standards on and off duty