Artesia Student Information Bulletin
Notification of Training
If you have been notified by your employing organization that you will be attending training at the FLETC, you are asked to call your organization representative at Artesia as soon as your transportation plans are firm. You are also asked to confirm attendance in the program NO LESS THAN FIVE (5) WORKING DAYS before class by contacting the same organization representative.
Registration
Registration occurs in two places – at the Security Office for your identification card, vehicle registration and weapon storage, and Registration Office in the dormitory for housing assignments.
You are required to wear your identification card at all times. Besides being a means of identifying individuals, it also serves as your meal pass in the dining hall. It must be presented and scanned in order for you to be served without being charged for food.
If you arrive in a government or privately owned vehicle, after registering your vehicle as indicated above and getting your identification badge, Security personnel will direct you to the Registration Office. Registration is from 12:00 noon until the last bus arrives from the airport on the day before your class begins.
When you register, you will also receive a class packet that contains information regarding the FLETC and class specifics: for example, class building number, location of classroom, starting time, and other pertinent information. In addition you will be asked to provide information on several forms. This information is required and used for the routine processing of training documents. Statements under the Privacy Act of 1974 are provided and must be acknowledged by you.
No personal weapons are allowed on the FLETC. You must turn in your weapon at Security when you arrive. You can check your weapon out on weekends. Please refer to the section in this handbook on the proper procedure to do so.
Students with Special Needs
If you have a special need, we ask you to notify your organization representative or the FLETC as soon as possible so arrangements can be made. Ground level handicapped dormitory rooms are available, as are refrigeration needs for prescribed medications. These services are available upon request.
Code of Conduct
While you are attending the FLETC for training, you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner befitting a law enforcement officer. Executive Order 11222 (18 U.S.C. 201) states the basic philosophy of conduct for those who carry out the public business:
"Where government is based on the consent of the governed, every citizen is entitled to have complete confidence in the integrity of his government. Each individual, officer, employee, or advisor of government must help earn and must honor that trust by his own integrity and conduct in all official actions."
You are expected to adhere to the above-stated principles and to standards of behavior that will reflect credit on the Government. You are reminded that Office of Personnel Management regulations state Federal employees shall not engage in criminal, infamous, dishonest, immoral, or notoriously disgraceful conduct, or other conduct prejudicial to the Government. Included in the Government Code is a statement regarding the responsibility to protect and conserve all Federal property.
Student Honor Code
The FLETC Student Honor Code is based on the premise that persons aspiring to/or serving as Federal law enforcement agents/officers should exhibit the highest levels of personal conduct and integrity. The Honor Code prescribes that all work submitted by you to complete a training program successfully be your sole product. You have an obligation to uphold the highest standards of integrity in training, which includes a refusal to tolerate dishonesty by other students and an active interest in contributing to the existence of a high sense of moral and social responsibility on the part of all students. The code applies not only to written examinations, but to all work performed in the graded practical exercises of a training program. Honor Code violations, as outlined in the FLETC Directive 67-35(c), will result in termination from training. The following are violations of the Honor Code as it pertains to dishonesty (cheating) on written examinations and graded exercises:
- Copying from another student’s work
- Soliciting, giving, and/or receiving unauthorized aid
- The duplication or replication of any part of an examination
- Exchanging and/or transmitting examination questions/materials from one class or student to another
- Use/possession of duplicated or replicated examination questions/materials
- Use of unauthorized aids
At the conclusion of each written examination, you will be asked to sign a pledge that you neither gave nor received aid from unauthorized sources before or during the examination. If you observe or learn of another student’s violation of the Honor Code, you are bound by the Honor Code to report to the examination administrator the name of such student(s), and furnish evidence as is available to support your allegation. For the Honor Code to operate successfully, the cooperation of the entire student body is essential.
Classroom Conduct
The FLETC takes great pride in providing quality training in a quality atmosphere. Part of that quality stems from the attitudes and conduct of you as a student. Conduct expected in the classroom is no different at the FLETC than that expected in any well-disciplined institution of learning, including promptness, attentiveness, cooperation, and courtesy to instructors and fellow students. In order to uphold these high standards of conduct, corrective or disciplinary action will be taken, including removal from training or placement in a conduct probationary status, for those not adhering to these standards. This action will be coordinated with employing organizations.
We ask that you not use tobacco products (including smokeless tobacco) while in the classroom. This is to promote good health, cleanliness and to respect the rights of your fellow students and instructors.
With regards to all allegations of cheating, the FLETC policy states that it be reported through official channels to appropriate personnel. Each instance of alleged cheating is reviewed in a detail necessary to determine whether there is validity to the allegation. All allegations of cheating are made a matter of official record, together with the results of the review and appropriate action, if any. If cheating is proven, you will be dismissed from training.
Practical Exercise Performance Requirements (PEPRS)
The PEPR’s establish minimum medical and/or physical training requirements each student must be able to meet prior to fully and safely participate in and complete all aspects of a specific training program. By design, each PEPR describes one or more simple tasks, movements, or positions which the student must be able to perform upon arrival at the FLETC for training.
Registered students should follow the PEPR link (PEPR requirements) and review the list of PEPR’s applicable to their program, if your program is not listed there are no practical application performance requirements. Students should answer the applicable PEPR’s for their program to the best of their ability prior to arriving at the FLETC and bring the form with them for the first day of training.
It is the policy of the FLETC that all students scheduled to participate in training-related physical activity, be sufficiently physically qualified so as not to present an undue risk to the health and safety of themselves and others. Furthermore, it is the policy of the FLETC that all students scheduled to participate in, or participating in training-related physical activity shall receive medical screening prior to engaging in such activity and as necessary during the course of training, this normally occurs during the first day of the training program. Students who, as a result of medical screening, are found to have medical conditions that might create a health or safety risk to themselves or others will be referred to the FLETC Medical Officer for consultation. Medical conditions which call for a referral to the Medical Officer include, but are not limited to those indicated on the Health Questionnaire. They include epilepsy, diabetes, asthma, emphysema, multiple sclerosis, hypertension, pregnancy, joint injuries/problems, colitis, heart disease, etc., and are conditions which are generally indicative of an inability to (1) satisfy the PEPR’s and/or (2) participate safely in unrestricted physical, weapons, and other training.
To participate in a training status, any student with a pre-existing condition, i.e., (back injury, etc), must bring to the Center a copy of any documentation stating student is cleared for training by the attending physician. This documentation will be retained by the Center Medical Officer for clearance to train.
After examination by the Center Medical Officer and/or the Review Board, students whose medical condition (1) makes them physically unable to perform the PEPR’s or (2) whose medical condition presents a reasonable probability of substantial harm to the student or others, will be referred within one business day to the appropriate FLETC Program Manager for disposition. This referral will include the Medical Officers’ determination as to (1) when and/or if the student will be able to perform the PEPR’s or (2) when the safety or health risk will no longer exist.
To the extent possible, the FLETC will attempt to reasonably accommodate permanent and temporary disabilities which are the result of underlying medical conditions. However, accommodation which results in a denigration of the quality of the training provided is not reasonable in that it is inconsistent with the FLETC’s mission of providing fully trained law enforcement personnel. In most cases, accommodations will be limited to the following: (1) student in good academic standing will be eligible to recycle through the training program upon removal of their disability and (2) partner organizations may request a waiver of the PEPR’s so that a student may attend the FLETC in a non-diploma/non-certificate status.
Physical Training Requirements - All Students
T-shirts, gym shorts, sweat suits, supporters, athletic bras, socks, and towels are provided by the FLETC for your use during physical training classes. These uniforms are required while participating in physical activities in the Physical Techniques Complex, including after-hour activities. You are held accountable for missing items. Since athletic shoes are not available from the FLETC for your use, you should bring your own athletic footwear (running/court shoes). Running shoes and athletic shoes used for street wear will not be allowed on the indoor basketball courts. These athletic surfaces require the use of shoes specifically designed for use on courts. Therefore, two pairs of athletic shoes are required--one pair for outdoor activities and one pair for indoor use.
Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB)
During several Basic Police Training Programs and Advanced Training Programs, you are required to complete the Physical Efficiency Battery (PEB). The PEB consists of five physical fitness items that are performed during a single, physical fitness evaluation session. The PEB measures body fat (skin fold technique), flexibility (sit and reach test), speed and agility (Illinois agility test), upper body strength (bench press), and aerobic capacity (1.5 mile run).
In order to participate in the PEB, you must bring a pair of running and court (tennis) shoes. Running shoes are appropriate for the 1.5 mile run, but they do not provide adequate support during lateral movement; therefore, if you do not have court shoes, you will not be allowed to complete the agility run.
Firearms Training
As an advanced firearm-training student, you are encouraged to bring your issued semiautomatic pistol along with issued leather gear and a minimum of three magazines for use in training.
If you are a Firearms Instructor Training Program (FITP) student, you are required to score an 85% (or 255) on the FLETC PPC course of fire on the first afternoon of class. You must prepare a lesson plan on a related firearm subject and conduct a 30-minute oral presentation.
NOTE: There is no remedial for the PPC course of fire.
Driver Training
If you are scheduled to participate in any exercise requiring the operation of a government vehicle, please ensure that you have in your possession and present upon request to the instructor or other FLETC official, your valid state driver's license. Anyone found to have a revoked, suspended or expired driver's license will not be allowed to participate in any exercise requiring the operation of a government vehicle and will be considered to have failed to meet the requirements for graduation from the training program being attended. There are no exceptions to this policy. Driver Training staff members will request you present your valid state driver's license during driver training courses being attended. Other sections conducting exercises requiring the operation of government vehicles may request you present your valid state driver's license.
During any exercise requiring the operation of a government vehicle, you must operate the vehicle within applicable federal and state laws governing the use of motor vehicles, both on and off the FLETC facility.
Federal Air Marshal Training
If you are a newly hired Air Marshal, here are some tips on what to expect while in training at the Artesia FLETC.
Clothing
Uniforms for wear during training, classroom, firearms and physical techniques, are issued. They consist of light blue polo shirts and navy blue utility pants. You are allowed, at your own expense, to wear your own personal black or navy blue BDU pants in lieu of the FLETC pants. For the final oath of office at graduation, a suit is recommended, but not required. Lace boots are recommended for wear in all training. Tennis shoes are required for physical techniques training. If you will be attending in the winter, a heavy jacket and stocking cap are recommended. Other than these requirements, you are encouraged to only bring clothing for leisurewear to reduce the amount of luggage.
POV
POVs are allowed on Center. It is at your discretion, if you choose to bring your POV.
Additional Information
If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to call (575) 748-8000 or e-mail FLETC-Artesia@dhs.gov.
Miscellaneous Items of Interest
Weapons Storage
Students and staff are not allowed to carry or possess their weapons while at the Center. Weapons must be checked in at Building 100, Security Office upon arrival at the Center and may be picked up at Building 100 after graduation. If partner organizations require, special arrangements will be made to permit you to fire your own weapon during training, however, the weapon must be stored in the FLETC weapons vault when not in use.
If you wish the use of your personal weapon on a weekend, tell your Agency Class Coordinator. You will be asked to complete a Weapons Check-Out Form by Wednesday prior to the weekend and return it to the Agency class coordinator. If your weapon is used in training, it will not be issued for weekend use if these procedures and timelines are not followed.
NOTE: FOR FLETC PURPOSES, a weapon is defined as any operable or inoperable firearm to include: Revolvers, Pistols, Rifles, Shotguns, Automatic Weapons, Air Rifles, BB/Pellet and Cap guns or any device capable of propelling darts or arrows, such as operable bows, compound bows and crossbows.
Absences
Annual leave will normally not be granted while you are in training. Leave requests for special situations will be granted only when both the appropriate program manager and organization representative agree that the leave request is reasonable and should be approved. If you are absent from training for three consecutive days, you are subject to removal from training, but may request to return at a later date.
Sick leave will be granted when a medical authority certifies your absence from class is due to illness or injury. If you are excused for these purposes, you must remain on center in your quarters or in rehabilitative facilities unless otherwise authorized. If you are absent or planning to be absent due to illness or other emergency, please notify your Agency Class Coordinator in advance of the class when possible. Notification may be made through other class members when direct notification is not practical or possible. For additional information, please refer to the Health Services section of this handbook.
Check-out Procedures
Upon completion of training, room keys should be returned to the Registration area. Envelopes are available for this purpose. Your weapon can be retrieved at the Security Office.
You will be notified before departing of any unreturned materials or financial obligations, i.e., missing uniform items. If you have already departed, a letter will be sent to your employing organization requesting assistance in resolving the matter.
Departure Transportation
In order to make your flight on the day after graduation, the FLETC bus departs the Registration Area at the following times; 4:30 a.m., 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.
Departures at any other time must be arranged in advance through your Faculty Advisor or Agency Class Coordinator.
Clothing
The personal appearance presented by you while at the FLETC is very important. It reflects not only upon the FLETC and the organization you represent, but also upon the law enforcement profession and the United States Government. Therefore, you have a responsibility to observe the minimum standards of personal dress outlined below.
If you are not issued your agency’s "Class A" uniform or normally do not serve in a uniformed capacity, you will, on the occasions calling for "Class A" uniforms, wear appropriate business attire, including coat and tie for male students.
Basic Police Students and Land Management Training Students
On the first day of class, and at other designated times throughout the program including graduation, you will wear the “Class A" or dress uniform of your agency, without leather and weapons. You must adhere to the regulations relating to care and proper wearing of the uniform. Normal classroom and field training attire will consist of the fatigue uniform issued at the FLETC that will be worn in the manner prescribed by FLETC regulations. The wearing of the FLETC issued training uniform, including those articles associated with physical training, are not authorized off the FLETC grounds or campus.
Advanced Students
Appropriate attire will consist of relaxed office (shirts must have a collar) or dress apparel as dictated by the activities of the course. Jogging suits, jeans, t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, "flip-flops", and similar leisure wear are not authorized for training use; denim jeans are acceptable only in lab or field exercises calling for rough wear or exposure to soil, chemicals, etc. In some advanced programs, you will receive the FLETC or agency-issued fatigue uniforms, which will be worn in accordance with FLETC regulations. On special occasions, such as graduations, you are required to wear appropriate business dress, including coat and tie for male students. When the FLETC-issued student uniform is worn, shirts will be buttoned to and including the first button below the collar button, and shirttails will be tucked into your slacks.
Uniform and Equipment Issuance/Exchange/Turn-In
Equipment Issue located in the Physical Techniques Building issues uniforms and physical techniques gear. Your Agency Class Coordinator will notify you of the date and time for uniform pick-up. If uniforms need repair, take them to Equipment Issue for replacement. Please do not attempt to alter or repair uniforms yourself or you may be charged for the item.
If any piece of the issued uniform is lost, you will be charged for the cost of replacing the lost item. Payments should be made to the Equipment Issue Office in the exact amount (make checks payable to “FLETC”) when the loss is reported.
Leisure Hours Clothing
Be sure that you bring appropriate leisure and off-duty clothing in order to enjoy your stay in the Land of Enchantment. The climate in Artesia is relatively mild. The temperature ranges from highs between 90 - 100 degrees in the summer and down to zero in the winter months, and can be very unpredictable. Evenings, even in the summer, can dip into the 60’s when a sweater or light jacket will come in handy. Seasonal high winds and associated blowing dirt/sand are common throughout the year.
Housing
For many years, it has been a basic premise of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center that students reside on Center. On-site residence is an essential factor in creating a living environment that facilitates the intensive law enforcement training conducted at the FLETC. Your housing is scheduled by the FLETC and will consist of either dormitory housing on the FLETC, or if necessary, off-FLETC housing at a contract motel. You will be told which housing you are scheduled for at Registration.
If off-FLETC housing is arranged for you in advance of your arrival on the FLETC, we ask that you not contact any off-FLETC housing contractor or attempt to make housing arrangements on your own. Various Federal regulations governing travel and per diem apply, as do the Federal Acquisition Regulations relative to contract services. This is true even if you have been told by your employing agency which motel you may be assigned. Housing assignments may change prior to the class start date. If you secure your own motel lodging arrangements, the costs incurred for the accommodations will be your responsibility. If you have questions, please contact your training officer.
Should problems arise while housed in a FLETC contract motel property, the initial notification of the difficulty or complaint should be communicated to the motel management. If resolution by the motel management does not take place within a reasonable period of time, the problem should be documented with the complaints specified. Timeliness is important in these matters, so please give your comments to either your Agency class coordinator of the FLETC faculty advisor as soon as possible.
Please do not pay the motel directly. Housing charges are reimbursed by the employing agency, and the motel sends the bill directly to the FLETC for processing.
If you have any questions regarding off-FLETC housing charges or payments, contact the FLETC at (575) 748-8007.
Costs incurred by the use of off-FLETC contract housing telephones are your responsibility to pay. Telephone charges are not part of the housing costs paid by your employing agency.
Dormitories
The Artesia FLETC has three dormitories. Dormitory rooms cannot be reserved in advance, but requests for roommates (within classes) can be made in advance by calling your organization representative at FLETC.
Dormitory rooms are individually heated and air-conditioned. They are also equipped with a remote-controlled television with cable and a radio with an alarm clock, irons and ironing boards. Maid service is provided on weekdays to clean your room and make your bed. Extra linens are provided for weekends when there is no maid service. Dormitory rooms are for your use only; there are no facilities for spouses, families, etc. We also ask that you conserve energy and water by turning off lights, water, and appliances when they are not being used.
You are accountable for the furnishings in your room. Inspect the condition of all items upon your initial check-in and report any damaged or missing items to Registration. Damages found in the room at a later time that were not reported upon initial check-in may be charged to the occupant(s) of that room. Sheets, pillowcases, towels, washcloths and one blanket will be available in your room upon check-in. If you need additional items, do not hesitate to contact Registration. Also, a pillow exchange is available at Registration if you prefer a different pillow. Bed linens are changed weekly. If you want clean sheets more frequently, you can strip the bed and take the linens to Registration for a one-for-one exchange. If you lose your room key, it will be replaced one time at no cost by Registration. Subsequent losses will cost $2 per set.
Housing areas are restricted to the FLETC and partner organization staff, contractor personnel, and students. Guests are allowed from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., on weekends and holidays. Guests are allowed in the rooms, provided both occupants (if double occupancy) agree. If you choose to have a guest on the FLETC, you must go to the Security office and personally sign for the guest(s) to be admitted. Your signature will be used to verify your identity. You must personally check out your guests at Security. You must accompany all guests when they are on Center.
Restrictions
The FLETC and contract staff work hard to keep the housing area clean and in good working order. We ask your cooperation in this so that restrictions may be kept to a minimum. The following are ways that you can be of assistance:
- The FLETC is a SMOKE FREE facility as directed by Presidential Order; thus smoking is not permitted inside any facility. Please observe fire safety precautions by placing cigarette/cigar butts and ashes in proper containers when smoking outdoors.
- No pets allowed.
- Quiet hours begin at 10:00 p.m. on weekdays to allow study time and rest, and continue until 5:00 a.m. the next morning.
- Limit the amount of food and snacks to airtight containers to prevent attracting pests
- No washing of clothes in the rooms.
- No cooking of food in rooms.
- No burning of incense, candles or anything requiring an open flame.
Any violation may result in you being dismissed from training at the FLETC.
Problems
Any problems should be directed to your Faculty Advisor or Agency Class Coordinator. Cases involving loss or thefts should be reported as soon as possible. Emergencies should be reported immediately to Registration.