(CARBONDALE, IL) — The Carbondale Police Department is accepting applications for the Basic and Advanced Citizens Police Academy classes. The purpose of the Citizen’s Police Academy (CPA) is to develop positive relations, and a better understanding and communication between the police and the community through education. The goal is to create a growing nucleus of responsible, well-informed citizens, who have the potential of influencing public opinions about police practices and services. You will gain an appreciation of the problems and challenges facing law enforcement and have an opportunity to offer comments and ideas regarding solutions. This class is free and anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to apply for the class. Every applicant will undergo a background check.  Applications for the class are available online at carbondalepolice.com or can be picked up at the police department.  They are due by Monday, Feb. 6 for the Basic Class and by March 20 from the Advanced Class. For more information, go to carbondalepolice.com or call 457-3200.