Dual Academy Trainee (Scheduled April 2026)

Position Concept

POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

INTEGRITY SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is seeking quality candidates who will embody the values and diversity of the community as a member of the agency.  This program allows you the opportunity to be certified in both Law Enforcement and Corrections under the Dual Academy Scholarship Program or certified in Corrections only under the Detention Academy Scholarship Program.

While attending the Dual Academy (approximately eight months) or Detention Academy (approximately four months), the Sheriff’s Office will provide a monthly stipend of $3,000 dollars per candidate (first and last month pro-rated). This program does not include health insurance or workers' compensation benefits, as you are not a member of the Sheriff’s Office; however, it is required that you obtain some form of insurance while attending the Academy.

Individuals selected will receive a scholarship for tuition, books, uniforms, and exam cost. However, you will be expected to purchase the following list of items that are required for the Academy.  The following costs are only estimates, as the total cost will depend on the quantity and name brand of the merchandise you decide to purchase.  You will be required to purchase these items prior to orientation at Polk State College, Center for Public Safety, in Winter Haven.  Should you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Human Resources Division at hr@polksheriff.org or (863) 298-6440.

• Boots : $60 to $300
• Polo Shirts (2 each) : $40 total
• Under Belt : $25 to $35
• Hearing Protection : $20
• Running Shoes : $60 to $200
• Basic Gun Cleaning Kit : $15
• Eye Protection : $10
• Physical Training Uniforms (3 sets) $80 approx.
• Battle Dress Uniforms (BDUs $60 total (recommend 2 each)
• Ball Cap (recommend 2 each) $30 total
• Black T-Shirt (5 each)– NOT V-Neck $20 to $50 approx. (T-Shirts to wear under uniform and polo shirts)

Upon graduating from either academy in good standing and successfully passing the state exams, you may be offered employment with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.   Once you are selected as a member of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, you will be assigned to the Department of Detention as a Detention Deputy for a minimum of two (2) years.  Those who attend the Dual Academy and complete two (2) years as a certified Detention Deputy will be eligible to submit a request for transfer to the Department of Law Enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff if you meet the requirements outlined in the General Orders and maintain a good employment record while working in the Department of Detention.

To be considered for selection, applicants for the Integrity Scholarship Program (Dual Academy) shall establish and maintain a legal residence within the boundaries of Polk County, Florida. Applicants selected for the Integrity Scholarship Program (Detention Academy) may establish and maintain a legal residence outside the boundaries of Polk County, Florida.

While attending the Academy classes, you are representing the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and you are expected to conduct yourself in a professional manner and adhere to ALL Polk County Sheriff’s Office General Order policies while attending class, as well as outside of class. Misconduct or lack of integrity will not be tolerated and may result in termination from the scholarship program.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer M / F / D / V

Education, Professional Certification or License

High School Diploma or GED

Min

USD $3,000.00 / Mo.

Max