Citizens Academy - Your Government in Action

Citizens Academy 2023 graduates

Apply Now: Join the 2024 Citizens Academy Class!

Applications are now being accepted for the 2022 Citizens Academy class. Applications will be accepted through Friday, December 8, 2023. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by December 15.

The 2024 Citizens Academy will take place every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for 10 weeks, beginning Wednesday, January 10 through Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Optional tours are offered after most class sessions, which may add additional time to the session; however, they are not required to attend.

Participant Selection

Due to space limitations, Citizens Academy classes are limited in size. Preference is given to those living within Midland's city limits. Citizens who applied in previous years but were not selected are encouraged to apply again!

To apply for the Citizens Academy program, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Reside in Midland County (preference given to residents within City limits)
  • Be able to attend classroom-style sessions for 2 hours per week from January to March
  •  Have an interest in learning more about your local government

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Have a question? Contact us!

Katie Guyer
Communications Coordinator
Community Affairs
989-837-3307
Email Katie


About the Program

Ever wonder why MPD has a canine unit, how your water is kept clean and safe for drinking, or how Engineering determines which roads will be repaired each year? Learn all that and more during the City's Citizens Academy!
 
The annual Citizens Academy is a free 10-week series of classes designed to teach citizens about how their local government works for them. The academy is held from mid-January through mid-March each year and takes participants through the various functions of City government The academy also includes a bonus session with Midland County government and tours of City and County facilities including the Midland County Jail, Water Treatment Plant, Fire Station 1, and more.

Program Description

Citizens Academy is held on Wednesday nights from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., with optional tours at some of the class facilities that can take up to 1 hour. 

During the weekly two-hour sessions, participants learn about the responsibilities of City departments and the services they provide to the community. Presentations and "behind-the-scenes" facility tours give participants a better understanding of the role local government plays in the quality of life that residents of Midland enjoy. Each session is held at a different City or County facility, giving participants a true sense of what it's like to work in local government.