Jim Rokaitis: You don’t learn integrity, courage from a textbook

Re “Police officers need better education” (Letters, April 16): I found the recent letter written a little insulting. The writer seems to imply that the lack of higher education somehow creates “bad” cops. Most people I know think the traits that make a good cop include courage, honesty, empathy, tenacity, patience, psychological and emotional stability, and high ethical standards. I’m not sure these characteristics can be learned from the pages of a textbook.

Some of the most intelligent and successful people I’ve had the honor of working with didn’t have four-year degrees.

Of course, there is value in continuing one’s education. An education alone, however, won’t guarantee success – nor does it determine who becomes “good” or who becomes “bad” (one need only research the educational background of many notorious criminals).

I commend The Bee for detailing the hiring and training process at the Modesto Police Department. Perhaps this bit of education will help enlighten readers eager to pass judgment on a still noble profession!

This story was originally published April 20, 2015 at 12:48 PM with the headline "Jim Rokaitis: You don’t learn integrity, courage from a textbook."