Deadline Approaching to Apply for San Mateo County’s Civics 101 Academy

REDWOOD CITY - Anyone who lives or works in San Mateo County can get an inside look at local government by applying for the 2026 Civics 101 Academy.

Applications for the popular nine-week academy are due Tuesday, September 1.

"This program is an incredible window into local government that allows community members to see their tax dollars at work firsthand," said San Mateo County Executive Mike Callagy.

"We want to demystify how the County operates, but more importantly, we want to inspire participants to take the next step," Callagy said. "Civics 101 is the perfect launching pad to learn about the many opportunities to serve on our advisory boards and commissions, where residents can directly shape the future of San Mateo County."

Participants will meet on nine consecutive Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m., beginning September 2 through October 28. Most sessions will be held on the County Center campus in downtown Redwood City.

Highlights include in-depth discussions with County leadership regarding affordable housing, the justice system, County finances, public health, local elections, sustainability, libraries and more.

An optional Saturday morning tour of a County correctional facility will also be offered.

The program is open to anyone 18 or older who lives or works in San Mateo County. Participants must be able to attend the weekly sessions, and those who complete the program will receive an official certificate.

Additional details and an online application form are available at https://www.smcgov.org/ceo/civics-101-academy

Before the class begins, enrollees will be sent via email the final program content and a map to the County Center campus.

Have questions? Send an email to Civics 101 host Eric Forgaard at [email protected].

Effie Milionis Verducci
Director of Strategic Communications and Community Partnerships
650-407-4915
[email protected]