Clarke County Supervisors and government employees value civic engagement and want to create opportunities for individuals to learn more about how their government offices, boards, commissions, and departments function. Clarke residents and business owners ages 18 and up may enroll in the Clarke County Citizens Academy, a program designed to engage as well as elicit feedback.  

Application deadline for the 2024-25 program is August 16. Find class schedule and application link below.

Clarke County Citizens Academy participants agree to meet from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. one Friday each month for 10 months (September to June); lunch is included. Citizens Academy cohorts are small enough that individuals will get to know each other and network with the county officials who lead the classes. Classes meet at different locations depending on the topic, and participants should provide their own transportation. Field trips include visits to the regional jail, county sewer and water plants, and the regional landfill.

Participants will walk away better informed about how Clarke County government operates. Those who meet attendance requirements receive graduation certificates.

Clarke County Citizens Academy is open to all county residents as well as owners of businesses in the county. Participants will:

• Gain a deeper understanding of how your government works from the people who directly serve you.
• Meet government leaders and staff members and visit various government facilities.
• Participate in discussions about Clarke County successes and challenges.
• Become a role model for other residents interested in social change.
• Help foster an environment that contributes to the quality of life for all residents.

Application deadline for the 2024-25 program is 5 p.m. Friday, August 16. Program fee is $50 to cover the cost of 10 lunches. Individuals accepted into the program will receive an email notification and class schedule from info@clarkecounty.gov. Payment is due on the first day.

Read the 2024-25 Clarke County Citizens Academy schedule.

Complete this brief Clarke County Citizens Academy application form.

For more information, contact County Administration at (540) 955-5100 or info@clarkecounty.gov.