HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — The annual Harrisonburg Citizen Academy is preparing to start on August 20, 2026.

The 14-week program, held one night each week from August 20 to mid-November, reportedly allows participants to visit City of Harrisonburg departments and some partner organizations to learn about the services, programs and events available to community members. Attendees will have the opportunity to go in depth with City departments, seeing up-close demonstrations of the tools, equipment and vehicles staff use in the performance of their duties while learning more about the important civil service done by each department.

“This program is great for those looking to join a city board or commission one day or even serve on City Council – but it’s also great for someone who just wants to learn more about their local government and help us find ways to improve the services we provide to Harrisonburg,” Harrisonburg Director of Communications and Public Engagement Michael Parks, the administrator of Harrisonburg Citizen Academy, said. “With usually 20 to 25 participants each year, everyone gets the opportunity to have real, in-depth conversations with staff and participate in the hands-on demonstrations and learning experiences each department offers.”

Classes take place from 6 to 8 p.m. each Thursday night, with some alterations:

  • The Aug. 27 class at Harrisonburg Public Works will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. to allow for extra time.
  • There also will be an optional Saturday class that will visit the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Regional Sewer Authority and Harrisonburg Water Treatment Plant currently scheduled for October 10.

For more information, visit Harrisonburg Citizen Academy | City of Harrisonburg, VA. Applications are due by August 14.