The Bonney Lake Police Department is preparing the 2013 version of its popular Citizens Academy program, set to begin in March.

The citizens academy is a seven-week classroom-based program that includes  hands-on learning and mock scenes with the goal of facilitating a better understanding of the criminal justice system and local police services through education.

The academy meets twice a week, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, for seven weeks beginning March 19. There is also a single Saturday session at the end for the firearms simulator and emergency vehicle operations.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or a High School Senior, live and/or work in the city of Bonney Lake, have a valid driver’s license, no felony convictions or outstanding warrants. All applicants are subject to a background check. There is no fee to attend and class notebooks will be provided to participants.

Classes are held at the Public Safety Building, 18421 Veterans Memorial Drive East.