Just Policing Training
Police officers and other public safety personnel are often the first point of contact in moments of crisis, confusion, or everyday encounters involving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including invisible disabilities. Without the right training, these interactions can escalate unnecessarily and put both officers and community members at risk.
Just Policing is a self-paced, online training that strengthens officers’ knowledge and practical skills for safer, clearer interactions with people with IDD. The five-hour course uses a cultural and trauma-informed lens and guidance from the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
By better understanding how disabilities may affect communication, behavior, and responses to directions or commands, officers can adjust their approach to help improve interactions, build trust between police and community members, and reduce the risk of tragic misunderstandings.
Course registration opens in January 2027.
Watch these videos to hear from people with disabilities, family members, and police officers about their experiences, concerns, and the need for this training.
Who Is Just Policing for and What Will Participants Learn?
Just Policing is a training course designed for law enforcement officers, agencies, and academies. It provides agencies and training coordinators with cons. The course includes self-paced modules on disability recognition, communication, de-escalation, and ADA compliance. Each module is built around real-world scenarios that officers are likely to encounter.
Participants will learn to:
- Recognize the signs of intellectual and developmental disabilities, including those that aren’t visible or apparent.
- Use practical de-escalation and communication strategies grounded in a trauma-informed approach.
- Understand ADA requirements and how they apply in the field.
Police departments and academies can use the course to build knowledge and skills across their teams and strengthen community trust through better-informed policing practices.
Enrollment Coming Soon: The course will open for registration in January 2027. Sign up here to receive updates.
More About the Just Policing Course
Can I enroll 10 or more staff members?
Yes, please email Tori Glaude at Glaude@TheArc.org for information about group enrollment.
How long do I have to complete the training?
The training is self-paced, but you must complete it within six months. If you need additional access after that period, email Glaude@TheArc.org.
Will I receive a certificate or continuing education credits?
Once you have completed the training, you will receive a certificate of completion. Depending on your state, you may also be eligible for state-approved law enforcement continuing education or Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) credits. We are currently working to obtain accreditation in all states.
How does Just Policing support The Arc’s work?
The Arc’s National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability (NCCJD) works to ensure people with IDD are treated fairly and safely throughout the criminal justice system—from first contact with police through courts and corrections. Just Policing supports this mission by building the knowledge and skills law enforcement officers need to serve people with IDD safely and effectively.
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
