The Austin Police Department still has a few openings for an upcoming citizen academy to educate the public on police work.

The academy, which will host about 12 to 16 residents, is the first in about 18 years, according to Police Chief Brian Krueger. As such, officers want to reach out to as many people as possible, and police have reached out to area organizations for potential academy participants.

Participants will receive hands-on training based on actual field work done by officers.

To apply, residents must be at least 21 years old, with no criminal convictions over the past five years, and live in or own a business in Austin, among other criteria.

The academy will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 15, 22, 29 and Oct. 6,13, and 20.

Residents can apply for the academy at the Mower County Law Enforcement Center at Main Street and Second Avenue Northeast. Applications are also online at the city of Austin’s website, at www.ci.austin.mn.us