Youth 360° Civic Academy

Ever ask yourself why a fire truck comes to an EMS call, who decides when a sidewalk needs repair, or why the Irving City Council has nine members?

The Irving Youth 360° Civic Academy was developed to answer these and other questions on how the City of Irving functions. It is designed to give participants a behind-the-scenes look at daily operations and encourage civic engagement. The academy is open to any high school students who live in Irving. Apply now

Session topics will include:

  • Irving's history
  • Government structure, elections and city boards and commissions
  • Public safety
  • Budget and finance
  • Solid waste services
  • Water utilities
  • Community planning
  • Building inspections and code enforcement
  • Economic development and tourism
  • Parks, libraries and other leisure services
  • Transportation and environmental initiatives
  • Arts and cultural activities

ENROLLMENT

Program size is set at no more than 14 participants. The focus is to create a group that is as diverse and dynamic as Irving. There is no cost to participate.

The application period for the Irving Youth 360° Civic Academy is closed. Participants will be notified by Wednesday, Aug. 28 and will receive the program itinerary, class schedule and expectations. If necessary, there will be a wait-list created for future iterations of Irving Youth 360° Civic Academy.

SCHEDULE

Classes will begin in early September and run for 11 weeks. Each week participants will meet at a predetermined location in the city for three hours. The classes will be set primarily on Wednesdays after regular school hours with some weekends. 

Upon completion of Irving Youth 360° Civic Academy, participants take part in a special recognition ceremony with city leadership. 

AFTER GRADUATION

After attending the Irving Youth 360° Academy, participants will have tools and knowledge that can help them in many situations, including:

  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Applying to serve on a city board
  • Speaking before the City Council on an issue
  • Sharing knowledge to assist neighbors and friends on how to access city services