Preparing For The Academy
So you are preparing to attend the academy. A little nervous? You don't need to be if you prepare for your first day. Read the following list of frequently asked questions and you will have a good idea of what to expect when you arrive at the academy.
What is Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy and why do I go there for my training?
Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy is one of ten regional criminal justice training academies located throughout Virginia. Normally recruit officers that attend Cardinal are employed by one of our 36 member agencies. The academy conducts entry level training programs to certify recruit officers as law enforcement officers, jailor/court services officers, dispatchers, and animal control officers. The entry level training programs are academically demanding and the recruit officers are required to demonstrate proficiency in all of training areas mandated by the Department of Criminal Justice Services. In addition, the law enforcement and jailor/court services courses include a demanding physical fitness program.
When do I start and how do I get there?
When you are hired, your employing agency will inform you when to report to the academy for the start of your training program. The academy is located at 917 Central Avenue in Salem, VA (click here for directions). Please keep in mind that railroad tracks cross several of roads near the academy so give yourself some extra time in case you have to wait on a train.
What will my training day be like?
You should be in the academy and prepared to start training at 7:00 am each day. Class lengths vary depending on the subject but you normally have a ten minute break each hour. You will be given a one hour lunch break from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm and you will be free to go to a local restaurant or you may bring your own lunch to the academy. A microwave oven and a refrigerator are located in the academy lounge and are available for student use. The academy also has a drink machine.
How should I dress for the first day?
The uniform for the academy is your issued agency uniform. You will not need your gun belt in the classroom and weapons are not permitted in the academy. If you have not been issued a uniform by the first day, you should wear appropriate business attire. For men, appropriate business attire consists of dress trousers, shirt, tie, sports jacket, and dress shoes. For women, appropriate business attire consists of a blouse or shirt with a collar, dress slacks or a skirt and dress shoes.
Do I need to bring any supplies the first day?
The academy will provide you with all of the material that you will need for the training.
Does the academy have any rules I need to know about?
Your first day of training will be devoted to an orientation to the academy and a briefing on the academy rules and regulations.
How tough is the physical fitness training?
Physical fitness is an important part of the entry level law enforcement and jailor/court services training programs at Cardinal Academy. Recruits attending either of these programs will have one hour of physical fitness training each day. The law enforcement recruits will take four physical fitness tests and the jailor/court services class will take three physical fitness tests during their respective training sessions. In addition, both classes will run the physical ability (obstacle) course several times during the session.
How can I get ready for the physical fitness training?
It is important that you start preparing yourself before you report to the academy. Hopefully, you are already in good physical condition but if you need a little help, the academy staff has a self directed pre-academy fitness program with threee days of training per week. This program is designed to prepare you for the general physical demands of academy training. You may print off the program by clicking on the link above and use it as a guide to prepare yourself.
I'm a little out of shape, should I just start working out?
Always consult a physician before starting a fitness program, especially if you are out of shape or over weight. If you are a smoker, try to quit or cut back. Before attending the entry level law enforcement or jailor/court services program, you are required by DCJS regulation to undergo a complete physical examination. If you plan to attend the Pre-Academy Fitness Program, your physical examination form must be on file at the academy before you can participate.
What clothes or equipment do I need to buy?
You will need a good pair of running shoes while you are at the academy. Plan on spending between $70 and $140 dollars for your shoes. Make sure that you buy the right shoe for your running style and body type. All of the running will be done on either asphalt or concrete and proper shoes will greatly reduce the strain on your feet and legs. Basketball shoes, tennis shoes or cross training shoes are not recommended. You will be issued an academy PT uniform that must be worn during physical training. Each student will be expected to provide plain white socks and running shoes. Male students are required to wear an athletic supporter or compression shorts and female students must wear a support bra during physical fitness training. The academy will also provide sweat suits for those recruits who are attending the spring session.
What else should I bring with me the first day?
The most important thing that you will need for the academy is a positive attitude! The academy is tough but many recruits have completed the training before you. Think of the academy as the foundation for building your career and work hard to make it a strong foundation. The academy staff is here to help you get the most out of your training experience. If you have any questions please contact us at (540) 375-3095.