The Kent County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the Fall 2026 Cohort of the Kent County Citizen’s Academy, a free five-week civic engagement program funded through a grant from the Maryland Two-Fifty Commission. This initiative commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America by empowering residents with greater knowledge of local government and fostering deeper civic participation.
The Citizen’s Academy offers Kent County residents an opportunity to take part in an interactive, behind-the-scenes educational experience exploring how county government works and how community members can get involved.
Program Overview Over five weeks, participants will explore key areas of county operations:
- Week 1: County Administration An introduction to county governance, administrative structure, financial operations, revenue sources, and partnerships.
- Week 2: Citizen Engagement A look at the county’s Boards, Committees, and Commissions and how residents can participate.
- Week 3: Public Safety Insights into emergency preparedness, 911 dispatch, EMS, law enforcement, the detention center, and re-entry programs.
- Week 4: Public Services An overview of departments that enhance quality of life, including Public Works, Planning & Zoning, Economic & Tourism Development, and Parks & Recreation.
- Week 5: Commissioners Meeting & Recognition Participants will attend a public County Commissioners meeting, engage with elected officials, and conclude with a recognition ceremony and refreshments.
Fall 2026 Program Dates The Fall cohort consists of 90-minute sessions on the following dates:
- Thursday, September 24, 2026 — 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 1, 2026 — 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 8, 2026 — 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 15, 2026 — 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, October 20, 2026 — 6:00 p.m. (Final session and recognition)
