Communications

The Civic Leadership Academy nine-month program, starting on October 20, provides residents an opportunity to learn first-hand about the role of local government and get an inside look at city operations. The program will offer residents an interactive learning experience at different city facilities, led by City department subject matter experts. Applications are closed for the 2023-2024 class but will open again in the summer of 2024!

Third Friday of each month
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Various City facilities

*Schedule subject to change prior to the start of the program.

• September 30, 2023 – The application period ends
• October 9, 2023 – Decisions letters sent to applicants
• October 20, 2023 – Welcome and Introduction to the City of Winchester | Rouss City Hall
• November 17, 2023 – Planning a Livable City | Trolley tour of Old Town and Design Districts
• December 15, 2023 – Keeping Our City Running: Water, Streets, Transportation, and More | Public Services Complex
• January 19, 2024 – Keeping Our City Safe: Police Department | Public Safety Building
• February 16, 2024 – Keeping Our City Safe: Fire & Rescue Department and Emergency Management | Fire Training Facility
• March 15, 2024 – Strengthening the Safety Net: Social Services | Department of Social Services
• April 19, 2024 – Creating an Impactful, Balanced Budget | Mock City Council Budget Meeting at City Hall
• May 17, 2024 – Ensuring a High Quality of Life | Jim Barnett Park and Rec Center
• June 14, 2024 – Graduation

• Open to residents of the City of Winchester.
• Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
• Participants must be willing to commit to attending eight monthly sessions and the Graduation. Missing more than one session will result in being dropped from the program.
• Participants are expected to display professional courtesy and respectful conduct to promote a positive experience for all.
• Monthly sessions will run from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
• While the program is a valuable tool to prepare a resident to run for office in the future, participants may not be run for the Winchester City Council during the program.
• The class size is limited to 20 participants.
• Lunch will be provided for the opening session on October 20 and the Graduation Ceremony on June 14.