Attending a Basic Session
After approval by APOSTC the recruit should arrive at the Academy ready to learn and prepared to pass the prescribed APOSTC physical agility and ability test.
The APOSTC Physical Agility and Ability Test
The two-phase test is administered the first day or second of the session (weather permitting) in the manner prescribed on the APOSTC website. Failure to meet the standards set by APOSTC will subject the recruit to a re-test within 48 to 72 hours. Failure to pass the re-test will result in dismissal from the Academy.
Training for the physical agility and ability test should start weeks and months before the session starts, not in the days and hours prior to arrival.
ALACOP Ready
New technologies are changing law enforcement and we have to change to keep up with technology. The Academy Staff requires that each officer attending the Academy has an ALACOP username and password with permissions for eCrash so that they can log in as themselves during eCrash training. The agency's ALACOP administrator should ensure that the officer has and is familiar with their ALACOP username and password and that the officer is granted eCrash privileges prior to attending the session.
The Academy Uniform
The Academy uniform is; a blue Dickie style uniform (short sleeved shirt and pants) with the Academy patch on the left shirt sleeve, a black crew neck t-shirt, black work boots or shoes, a black belt and a nametag. Sponsoring Agencies must provide the uniform and they are available from MAC (Municipal and Commercial) Uniform or McCain Uniform in Birmingham, AL.
Lodging
Lodging for your stay at the Academy is available at several area hotels. Hotels with preferential pricing are:
Hotel Capstone
320 Paul W. Bryant
Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL
35401
Phone: 205-343-1136 Hotel Capstone Info Sheet
Candlewood Suites
651 Skyland Blvd East
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-722-0999 Contact Cheree’ Slaten Candlewood Suites Info Sheet
Ramada of Tuscaloosa
631 Skyland Blvd. East
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-759-4431 Ramada Info Sheet
Hometown Suites
1650 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
205-553-3828 Home-Towne Suites Info Sheet
Country Inn & Suites by Carlton
4801 McFarland Blvd East
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-345-9999 Information Sheet
Courtyard by Marriott
4115 Courtney Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
205-750-8384
Fairfield Inn by Marriott
4101 Courtney Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
(205) 366-0900 Fairfield Inn by Marriott Info Sheet
The New Concept Microtel Inn and Suites
1417 Veterans Memorial Parkway
Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35404
(205) 553-4095 Microtel Info Sheet www.tuscaloosamicrotel.com
Mention the Academy when you make your
reservations for the Government rate. You may be able to avoid the applicable tax if your agency can provide a tax exempt document.
Notify the Academy Staff if you have
problems with these vendors.
Day one of your Session
Training starts at the time prescribed on the acceptance letter sent to your agency, so make a good impression by being on time and in your seat when the session begins. Arrive wearing the Academy uniform or business appropriate clothing. Bring running shoes with you for the physical agility and ability test. A t-shirt and shorts will be issued to you before the test. Sweat clothing is available for purchase (or can be billed to your agency). Shower facilities are available on-site so you may bring showering necessities to freshen up after the agility and ability testing.
A starter supply of paper and writing utensils is provided, but students are responsible for obtaining subsequent supplies. A Wal-Mart is conveniently located near the Academy.
Students should have access to rain gear for foul weather training days. Only severe weather will interrupt the training schedule. If necessary, we will train in the rain.
Firearms
Firearms are not permitted in the building unless specifically called for by Academy staff. Firearms should be secured in the trunk of your vehicle or otherwise secured. This policy will be strictly enforced.
One of the education requirements of APOSTC is that the recruit must pass 43 hours of firearms training and qualify on two of three attempts on the firearms course. A minimum score of seventy (70) is required to pass each attempt. Qualifying only once during the firearms qualification attempts will result in required successful attendance in the next Academy Session's firearms week in order to achieve certification. Failing to qualify at all (no attempts resulting in at least 70%) will result in the recruit being removed from training and barred from employment and certification as a law enforcement officer for two years. APOSTC Education Requirements for the Basic Academy
Cell Phones
Student's cell phones, beepers and lincs are not permitted in the classroom and should be left in your vehicle. Emergency messages may be left with the Academy Staff for delivery to students.