Fishers invites youth to explore local government through citizen academies

City programs include Mayor’s Youth Academy, Fishers Health Department Public Health Academy & Police Academy

Fishers’ youth are invited to explore the inner workings of local government and careers with several upcoming opportunities, including: Mayor’s Youth Academy, the Fishers Police Department Teen Academy, and the Fishers Health Department Teen Public Health Academy. Registration is currently open for all programs and participation is free.

“Investing in the education and engagement of our youth is essential for cultivating the next generation of community leaders,” Mayor Scott Fadness said. “The City of Fishers is proud to offer these unique academies as a gateway for young people to gain hands-on experience in careers in government operations and public service. Through these programs, students have the opportunity to understand and contribute to the city they call home.”

Mayor’s Youth Academy

The free Mayor’s Youth Academy program invites local high school students to work alongside Mayor Fadness and other city leaders to address important issues facing the community. Students will take behind-the-scenes tours, discuss thought-provoking policy questions, and explore career opportunities within the public sector.

In coordination with local schools, students meet monthly on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at various locations around Fishers. Mayor’s Youth Academy participants will conclude the program by presenting to Fishers City Council in spring 2025.

Registration for the 2024-2025 Mayor’s Youth Academy is open through Friday, June 28. Applicants must be a Fishers resident and a junior or senior in high school with a minimum grade-point average of 3.0. Students with a passion for public service are encouraged to apply. Register at FishersIN.gov/MYA.

Fishers Health Department Teen Public Health Academy 

This one-week health academy provides an interactive experience for high school students to explore a variety of public health disciplines while learning how the Fishers Health Department works to protect and promote the health and well-being of residents.

Students will work with department leadership, public health nurses, environmental health inspectors, communicable disease investigators, public health clinical staff, City of Fishers officials, and community partners to learn the science of public health and engage in interactive public health protection activities including retail food inspections, water sampling, vector (pest) control, and more.

The 2024 Teen Public Health Academy takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 15 through Saturday, July 20. Registration is open through May 31. Applicants must be a Fishers resident and an incoming freshman through senior in high school. Register at this link.

Fishers Police Department Teen Academy

The Fishers Police Department Teen Academy provides law enforcement-type training for teens to better understand how law enforcement works and strengthen the relationship between Fishers Police Department officers and the community.

The program provides an overview of roles and responsibilities of officers, as well as insight into specialized units and skills, including the K-9 Unit, the Fishers Dive Team, Crime Scene Investigation and Patrol.

The four-day program will take place from 9 am. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 8 through Friday, July 12 at Sand Creek Intermediate School. Applications are open through Thursday, May 17 for students entering seventh through 12^th grades attending Fishers-based schools. Students must also pass a background check. Register at this link.

To learn more and to apply for programs, visit FishersIN.gov/CitizenAcademies.