(May 21, 2025) – On May 6th, The Atlanta Police Department (APD) marked a historic milestone as it celebrated the first graduating class at the newly opened, state-of-the-art Public Safety Training Center.
Class #287, consisting of 34 recruits, officially received their badges after completing more than 900 hours of rigorous training at the Atlanta Police Academy. This class is the largest to graduate from the department since 2016, signaling a renewed commitment to public safety and officer development in the city.
Until now, APD’s graduation ceremonies were held at Atlanta Metropolitan College. The transition to the new Public Safety Training Center not only reflects a shift in location but represents a major investment in the future of public safety.
Atlanta Chief of Police Darin Schierbaum emphasized the significance of the occasion, highlighting the importance of the facility and those present. “We have to remember why it’s important for us to be here today; you’re sitting in a premiere investment in American law enforcement that is best in the nation right now,” he said.
According to Chief Schierbaum, interest in joining the Atlanta Police Department has surged to such a degree that the department will move from holding 3–4 academy graduations a year to hosting one every month. If this momentum continues, he anticipates APD will soon reach its goal of 2,050 sworn officers, making it the largest police department in the State of Georgia.
The Atlanta Public Safety Training Center is a cornerstone of a broader initiative to elevate training standards, boost officer morale, improve recruitment and retention, and rebuild public trust. It reflects a commitment to preparedness, transparency, and professionalism across all ranks of Atlanta’s first responders.
With their formal training complete, the 34 new officers will now begin field assignments across the city, joining the ranks of those committed to protecting and serving Atlanta’s diverse communities.
To learn more about the Public Safety Training Center please visit https://www.atltrainingcenter.com/
To learn more about the Atlanta Police Foundation’s Build the Force campaign, visit www.atlantapolicefoundation.org.
Written by APF Communications Intern Kenya M.
