PITTSFORD, Vt., January 19 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today visited the Vermont Police Academy in Pittsford to announce federal funding he secured for the institution to make significant upgrades to improve students’ ability to access educational materials wirelessly.

Sanders secured a $200,000 federal grant for the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council.  This funding will provide laptop computers for each student at the academy, providing them with wireless internet and intranet access throughout the campus.  The Rutland County facility provides training to police from across the state, training new police recruits as well as career officers seeking in-service training.

“These state-of-the-art enhancements will empower students in basic training, as well as those professionals receiving in-service training, to experience an innovative learning environment,” Sanders said.  “Vermont Police Academy has an engrained commitment to graduating the best educated, most well-balanced and highly proficient alumni.  It is my sincerest hope that this funding will help in a small way to produce the highly dedicated and professional Vermont police officers we’ve come to expect from this institution.”

Wireless access will allow student officers to access the most current statutes, regulations, and data online from the classroom or dorm.  It will also allow online testing, scoring, and feedback to students.  These enhancements will enable students in basic and in-service training to learn in a more modern manner. 

During his visit, Sanders took the opportunity to thank current and future officers for choosing to serve their community.  “I want to thank the men and women of the Vermont Police Academy for what you do daily that ultimately makes a real difference in the lives of your fellow citizens.”