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Woodland Park Citizens Academy
LEARN | ENGAGE | MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Have YOU ever wondered...
- How does Woodland Park's government work?
- What do City Councilmembers do?
- Where does our water come from? How does it get here? And where does it go?!
- How is the City budget created?
- How does police dispatching work?
- Who fixes the potholes? When do my streets get plowed?
- What can I do to get involved?
At Woodland Park Citizens Academy, you'll get answers to all of those questions...and more!
What is the Citizens Academy?
The Citizens Academy is a FREE series of in-person classes designed to provide an inside look at the City of Woodland Park government. This program is for anyone who wants more insight into their local government in a hands-on environment.
In each class, City staff and elected officials will provide an in-depth look at how our local government functions! Students will tour facilities, participate in mock activities, learn how different departments operate, and get face-to-face time with department directors.
Eligibility
The Citizens Academy is open to Woodland Park and surrounding area residents interested in learning about our city! The minimum age of enrollment is 16 (or turning 16 during the Academy cycle). Applicants living within Woodland Park's city limits will be prioritized.
- Applicants must be able to attend all sessions.
- Please do not apply if you have previously attended the Citizens Academy.
APPLY FOR THE 2026 CITIZENS ACADEMY
Applications for the 2026 Citizens Academy program closed on December 26, 2025.
| Topic | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Local Govt/Council/City Manager | 1/7/26 | 6:00-8:00 PM |
| Court & City Clerks Office | 1/14/26 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM |
| Planning, Zoning & Building | 1/21/26 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM |
| Budget & Finance | 1/28/26 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM |
| Public Works* | 2/4/26 | 6:00 - 8:30 PM |
| Water* | 2/11/26 | 6:00 - 8:30 PM |
| Wastewater* | 2/18/26 | 6:00 - 8:30 PM |
| Parks & Recreation* | 2/25/26 | 6:00 - 8:30 PM |
| Police Department* | 3/4/25 | 6:00 - 8:00 PM |
| Graduation Ceremony | 3/5/26 | 6:00 PM |
*indicates the session includes a tour of a City facility. Dates are subject to change
Participant Expectations
- Each Citizens Academy session has been designed to provide a solid learning opportunity within the allotted timeframe. Please respect the time of City staff and other participants by arriving promptly.
- Because of the limited number of slots available for participants, attendance at all sessions is required unless extenuating circumstances arise. Should something come up, please call or email Kristen Higginbotham in advance.
- Your safety is important to us! Participants must wear athletic or flat footwear when touring City facilities. Sessions that include a tour are marked with an asterisk * on the chart above.
- Participants will be expected to take a short survey after Graduation to provide helpful feedback for future students.
- Be Kind. Participants are expected to engage with one another respectfully at all times.
- Because of the wealth of information provided throughout the Academy, it will be imperative that we stay on task. Your assistance in keeping the sessions focused is much appreciated.
- Have fun and enjoy this unique civics experience!
Interested in supporting the 2026 Citizens Academy? Reach out today!
We are grateful for the generosity and support of local businesses and organizations. Their contributions significantly impact the success of the Citizens Academy. Thank you!