The Lisbon Police Department recently sponsored a 10-week, one-night-per-week Citizens Police Academy at the Police Department. I decided to enroll in the academy because I have a great respect for the police and the job that they do.

Chief David Brooks, who sanctioned and encourages the existence of the academy and Sgt. Scott Stewart, who facilitated the academy, should be congratulated and commended for doing an outstanding job. Each week, a Lisbon officer did a presentation on their area of expertise. Each officer displayed a real passion for their job and explained and informed us about what they did and why they do it.

Classes were informative, instructional, some with hands-on activities and interaction within the group, sometimes funny, sometimes serious, but above all, extremely well done every week. We covered topics ranging from police uniforms to murder.

The professionalism displayed by these officers was impressive. The adage that “You don’t appreciate another person’s job until you walk a mile in their shoes” fit this academy perfectly.

If the Lisbon Police Department decides to run another Citizens Police Academy, I would encourage anyone to consider enrolling. It is a great and enjoyable learning experience.

Margaret Frankenberger, Lisbon Falls