After residing in Fishers since 1991, and as far back as I can remember, there has been a citizens academy of some sort, going back to the days of being a town.  Everyone leaving that program told me it was a very worthwhile experience.

The HSE School District has just started its own version, with HSEngaged.  29 people have been chosen to participate in the initial program.

The City of Fishers recently announced a long list of opportunities for local citizens to become involved and learn more about the city.  The list includes the City Government Academy, Mayor’s Youth Academy, Citizens Fire Academy, Citizens Police Academy, Fishers Police Department Cadet Academy and also information on how you can be a volunteer.

Here is the full listing, as provided by the City of Fishers:

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City Government Academy
The City of Fishers’ award-winning City Government Academy offers residents an exclusive, behind-the-scenes exploration of local government. At the end of the nine-week course, participants will have a greater understanding of how Fishers government works for its residents. Classes will typically be held on Wednesday evenings this fall from 6 to 8 p.m. Registration for the fall sessions closes on Friday, September 3. To learn more and register, visit ThisIsFishers.com/CGA.

Mayor’s Youth Academy
In partnership with Hamilton Southeastern Schools and the Eman Schools, the Mayor’s Youth Academy offers the opportunity to work with Mayor Scott Fadness to build community awareness, provide hands-on learning opportunities, and inspire future careers in the public sector. Applications for the 2021-2022 school year are due Friday, September 3. High school juniors and seniors that attend school in Fishers with a GPA of at least 3.0 are eligible for the program. To learn more and register, visit ThisIsFishers.com/Citizen.

Citizen’s Fire Academy
The Fishers Fire Department Citizen’s Academy is an eight-week program designed to increase understanding of fire and emergency medical operations and to promote citizen interaction with the Fishers Fire Department personnel. The program is designed to enhance awareness of the department’s capabilities, develop realistic expectations of response times from the point of dispatch, and develop a cooperative relationship between firefighters and the citizens of Fishers. Learn more and register at ThisIsFishers.com/Citizen.

Citizen’s Police Academy 
The Citizen’s Police Academy is an opportunity for the community to participate in police-style training through a 12-week course. Topics include criminal law, crime prevention, the K-9 program, defensive tactics, and narcotics training through demonstrations and classroom instruction. Learn more at ThisIsFishers.com/Citizen. 

Fishers Police Department Cadet Academy 
Open to young adults 14 to 19 years old, the Cadet Academy exposes participants to the Fishers Police Department and helps those interested in law enforcement careers to make an informed decision. Programs offered include crime scene investigation, traffic stops, use of police dogs, SWAT, computer crimes, and more. Registration is due September 13 and is available online at fishers.in.us/CadetProgram. Interested participants can learn more at the Cadet Program Open House on Monday, August 30 at 7 p.m. at the Fishers Police Department.

Volunteer Opportunities
Get involved and make a difference in your community this fall with volunteer opportunities with the City of Fishers and Fishers Parks. Upcoming opportunities include the Run to Remember 5K and Safety Day on September 11, Glow in the Park on September 19, AgriPark Fall Festival on October 16, and Boo Bash on October 30. From October 2-9, the City will host the fall celebration of Keep Fishers Beautiful, with special volunteer opportunities throughout the week. Learn more at VolunteerFishers.com.