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

Applications are now available for the next session of the Irving Youth 360° Civic Academy. 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.

Applications must be received by Aug. 23. 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. Apply now

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