UPDATED Aug. 4: The Town of Arlington is welcoming applications for its third civic academy through Sunday afternoon, Aug. 4.
No tuition is charged. To be eligible, applicants must be Arlington residents at least 18 years old. Sessions take place on six successive Thursday evenings starting in September, taught by relevant town staff members.
To be considered for the fall 2024 class, applicants must complete the application by Aug. 4. Applicants will be notified of their status no later than Aug. 30 unless a cancellation creates an opening. For additional information, email Arlington Public Information Officer Joan Roman (jroman at town.arlington.ma.us).
According to the town, participants will learn how the town works and the role that they potentially could play in town government. The course is geared to those interested in joining a town committee or commission, or in running for Town Meeting or another elected office. Preference for academy attendance generally goes to those with fewer than two years of experience serving on a committee, commission, council or in Town Meeting.
Civic academies are educational opportunities conducted by municipalities across the country to encourage civic engagement and provide educational materials for the public on how town government operates, a town news release said. Each session will provide an overview of government operations led by town officials with discussion and/or a hands-on activity.
Academy overview
- The upcoming course will meet six consecutive weeks: Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m., Sept. 12 through Oct. 17.
- The course will enroll up to 20 participants.
- Classes will be held in ADA-accessible municipal buildings in Arlington.
- Light refreshments will be served.
Curriculum overview
- Sept. 12: Overview of Town governance and Town operations
- Sept. 19: Town Clerk; how to get involved; public libraries; Arlington Public Schools
- Sept. 26: Public Works; Inspectional Services; Fire
- Oct. 3: Health & Human Services; Department of Planning and Community Development; Police
- Oct. 10: Recreation; Budget and Finance
- Oct. 17: Graduation
June 22, 2024: Arlington congratulates Civic Academy graduates
This news announcement was published Wednesday, July 24, 2024, based on information provided by Joan Roman, spokeswoman for the Town of Arlington, and updated Sunday, Aug. 4.
