Citizens Academy

I feel like I have a much better grasp of each department of the town, its culture, management style, triumphs, and challenges than I did prior to the program. ~ Citizen Academy Graduate 2019 Class

About the Academy

Join your neighbors as part of the Town's Citizens Academy, a 11-week, up close view of local government. Participants will take a deep dive into all aspects of their Town government through a variety of classes and interactive activities. Participants will explore the following departments: Town Government overview, Finance and Budgeting, Fire, School, Department of Public Works (DPW), Recreation, Library, Planning, Economic Development, Inspectional Services, Police, Senior Center, Veterans, Public Health, IT, Electric, and Engineering.

Academy Schedule

Weekly sessions on Thursday evenings at various locations around the Town of Danvers from 6: 8:30 pm Graduation occurs after the final week at a Select Board meeting (typically on a Tuesday).

September 15: Town Government Overview
September 22: Finance and Budgeting
September 29: Fire Department
October 6: DPW: Part I
October 13: DPW: Part II
October 20: Recreation and Library
October 27: Planning, Economic Development and Inspectional Services
November 3: Police Department
November 10: Senior Center, Veterans and Public Health
November 17: IT and Electric
November 24: No Class (Happy Thanksgiving!)
December 1: School Department
December 6 (Tuesday): Graduation

A light dinner and refreshments will be served during each night of the program.

Requirements

Must be a current resident of Danvers
Must be 16 years of age by July 1, 2022
Preference may be given to registered voters
Must be willing to sign a liability waiver (we plan to have fun!)
Consideration will be given to applicants who work but don't live in Danvers

Childcare

While you participate in the Town of Danvers Citizens Academy, you will have the option for your children ages 4-12 to participate in the Little Citizens Activity Program located at the Great Oak School. Danvers Recreation staff will lead a fun evening of age appropriate activities for your children. Activities may include: small group games, arts and crafts, board games, age appropriate G rated videos and much more. Water will be provided, but please make sure your child eats before the program as food will not be served. Registration is required and limited to those whose parents are participating in the Citizens Academy. Drop-ins are not allowed. Registration information is available in the Citizens Academy application.

Registration

To register, please complete the Fall 2022 Citizens Academy Application (PDF) and return to Jen Breaker, Assistant Town Manager, by August 19. Forms can be emailed Jen Breaker, drop off at Town Hall in the Town Managers office or the white drop box, or mailed (1 Sylvan Street). Late applications may not be accepted.

Questions?

For additional information or if you have questions about the Academy please email Jen Breaker, Assistant Town Manager.