Citizens Academy

Citizens Academy is a free, hands-on, public information program that allows citizens an insight into City services and the functions of City departments. The class size is limited to the first 30 residents that sign-up because of the interactive nature of the program. Attendees must be at least 16 years old to participate.

The Citizens Academy program consists of seven, two hour evening sessions, held on Thursdays.

All sessions are from 6-8 p.m. and will be held at various City facilities. Dinner will be provided at 5:45 each week.

Citizens Academy Session Schedule:

Week 1: History of Lakeland and Finance Department
Week 2: Lakeland Fire Department
Week 3: Community and Economic Development
Week 4: Lakeland Police Department
Week 5: Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts
Week 6: Lakeland Electric
Week 7: Lakeland Linder Airport & Graduation

All participants in the Citizens Academy are encouraged to attend all the sessions in order to get the most from the program. Citizens Academy will allow Lakeland residents to get a behind the scenes look of how city government operates. The class will graduate with a certificate in “Governmentology.”

Sign Up

The upcoming 2025 Citizens Academy class is full. If you would like more information on the program, please email: citizensacademy@lakelandgov.net.