Contact:  Donna Gray
 Phone:  373-2723

Nationally Acclaimed City Academy to Begin This Fall
Apply Now to Be Part of Fourth Annual City Academy

GREENSBORO, NC (June 28, 2007)  – Applications are now being accepted for Government Works: A City Academy, an educational program that teaches Greensboro residents about their City government organization. Recognized by the U.S. Conference of Mayors as one of the country’s premier government educational programs, Government Works is in its fourth year of operation. The fall session begins on September 6.

City Academy teaches participants about City government through experiential learning and in-depth exercises.  The program helps develop future leaders and build a better community through well-informed and civically engaged residents.  Classes are held every Thursday from September 6 through November 15 from 6 to 9 pm. New this year is the addition of an extra evening and Saturday elective sessions that allow participants to experience hands-on police programs at the Public Safety Training Facility.  A graduation ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 20 at the City Council meeting.  There is no cost to attend the academy.
  
Class participants will take part in activities such as creating a simulated “balanced budget”, planning a neighborhood, touring the Guilford Metro 911 Center, practicing vehicle extrication exercises, visiting the police firing range, touring a water treatment plant, and more.

To apply for Government Works, visit www.greensboro-nc.gov or call Donna Gray at 373-2723. Deadline to apply is July 31.

Government Works is open to all Greensboro residents. Twenty-five people representing all council districts and various backgrounds will be selected for the academy.  Other selection criteria include:

• 18 years of age or older
• Must attend 80% of classes
• Written statement of desire to participate
• Preference given to those wanting to serve on a board or commission

Efforts will be made to select individuals who represent “diverse” groups (race, religion, age,
education, sex, sexual orientation, etc.)

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