BluePen - The Law Enforcement Writing Coach
Elevate Your Writing Skills with BluePen
BluePen: The Law Enforcement Writing Coach is a dynamic and engaging course designed to enhance the writing skills of police officers and recruits. Whether you're a seasoned officer looking to refine your reports or a new officer aiming to master the art of clear and concise communication, BluePen offers tailored support to meet your needs.
Course Highlights
Personalized Writing Improvement
Submit Examples for Review: Start by providing samples of your writing that need improvement. This helps us understand your current skill level and identify areas for growth.
Target Quality Benchmarks: Share redacted examples of high-quality writing from your agency. These serve as benchmarks for your progress and set the standard for the writing skills you'll develop.
Agency Progress Tracking: Provide a contact name and email from your agency. This allows us to keep your agency updated on your progress through Canvas, our comprehensive learning management system.
Access to Comprehensive Learning Materials
Instructional Videos and Resources: Gain access to a rich library of instructional videos and written resources that cover essential writing techniques and best practices tailored to law enforcement contexts.
Tailored Assignments: Engage with assignments specifically designed to target your unique writing challenges and skill development needs. This isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” course; BluePen is a personalized writing experience that helps you identify your strengths and improve your weaknesses.
Personalized Quizzes: Take quizzes that use your own writing as learning material, helping you analyze and improve your work through practical application.
Expert Feedback and Support
Video Feedback: Receive detailed video feedback from a writing professor who specializes in teaching writing to police recruits and officers. This personalized insight will guide you in honing your writing skills.
Tutoring Sessions: If needed, schedule one-on-one tutoring sessions to address specific writing issues, solidify your understanding, and ensure continuous improvement.
Flexible Course Duration
Standard Four-Week Program: Follow the comprehensive four-week schedule to fully immerse yourself in the learning experience.
Expedited Two-Week Option: If necessary, complete the course in an accelerated two-week timeframe without compromising on the quality of instruction and support.
Meet the Instructors!
Erica Roa Walton
Erica N. Roa Walton brings an extensive background in law enforcement, education, and student affairs, making her an outstanding resource for reviewing and improving police reports. As a School Resource Officer (SRO) with the Charleston Police Department since 2022, Erica has been instrumental in developing data-driven initiatives and creating best practices in student safety and juvenile diversion programs. Her role includes handling initial service calls involving students, coordinating Peer Court, and delivering expert presentations on topics such as criminal justice careers, social media safety, and substance abuse.
With over a decade of experience as a Juvenile Officer for the Charleston Police Department, Erica is a lead investigator for crimes involving juveniles, both as victims and suspects. She also serves on the department's Public Relations Team, focusing on community-oriented policing. Her expertise extends to forensic interviewing and investigating internet crimes against children as part of the ICAC Task Force.
In addition to her law enforcement duties, Erica has been an instructor at the University of Illinois Police Training Institute since 2014, where she instructs recruits on a wide range of topics, including child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and elder abuse. She is also a trainer in defensive tactics and has guided recruits through hands-on scenarios that mirror real-life policing challenges.
With her deep knowledge, investigative experience, and commitment to education, Erica Roa Walton is exceptionally qualified to guide you through the intricacies of police report writing, helping you craft accurate, effective, and professional reports.
Jen Whiting
Jen Whiting is an accomplished educator with a diverse range of expertise that makes her well-qualified to guide students through the intricacies of police report writing. As an instructor at the University of Illinois' Police Training Institute, she brings real-world experience in law enforcement education, focusing on report writing, a fundamental skill for officers in the field. Jen has taught college composition and technical writing at numerous institutions, including Montclair State University, Rutgers University, Baruch College, and the University of Illinois, providing her with a strong foundation in helping students develop their writing abilities.
Jen’s impressive academic background, which includes a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and her ongoing Doctor of Education at the University of Illinois, informs her thoughtful and effective teaching style. As a curriculum analyst and instructional designer for law enforcement and higher education programs, Jen has designed courses and instructional materials that resonate with diverse learners, ensuring that they acquire both the knowledge and the practical skills needed for their roles.
In her extensive teaching career, Jen has been recognized for her dedication to student success and has won accolades such as the Ellen Lask Excellence in Teaching Award at Baruch College. Her research on machine-generated review and revision in law enforcement education also underscores her commitment to incorporating innovative teaching methods that enhance student learning.
Students in this report writing class can expect Jen to bring a wealth of knowledge, personalized feedback, and an understanding of the challenges officers face when writing clear and accurate reports. With her background in both education and law enforcement training, Jen is uniquely positioned to help students succeed in mastering this critical skill.
Join the BluePen Community of Writers Today!
Take the first step towards exceptional writing skills with BluePen. Enhance your ability to communicate effectively and professionally in your law enforcement career. Enroll now and unlock your potential as a proficient writer and communicator.
Training Charges
$495
Class Schedule
| Dates | Link to Enroll |
| 11/15/24 - 12/15/24 | Click Here to Enoll in November BluePen |
| 01/15/25 - 02/15/25 | Enrollment will be open December 1st |
| 02/15/25 - 03/15/25 | Enrollment will be open December 1st |