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NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Today the City of New Haven announced the relaunch of Democracy School! Applications for the two-month-long fall session of the Democracy School are now available for New Haven residents. The program will start in September. The Democracy School will introduce residents to the structures, services, and leaders in the City of New Haven through a series of public information sessions. City officials will introduce their work and lead question and answer sessions aimed at fostering open lines of communication, enabling participants to take full advantage of City resources and empowering residents to become community leaders and advocates.

New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker released the following statement:

The Democracy School is an excellent way for residents to learn how City government works and about the services we provide for all our residents in the Elm City. In fact, Democracy School was one of the ways that I started to become involved in the City years ago. As an alumnus of the Democracy School, I met community members from all around New Haven and learned directly from City staff about the nuts and bolts of City business. I encourage all residents to participate in this fun and invaluable experience. 

Democracy School is open to any New Haven resident that is at least 18 years of age by the start of the first session. Due to an anticipated high volume of applicants and physical restrictions imposed on the program by COVID-19, space will be limited to only 20 students. We, here at the City of New Haven, plan to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate and foster long, impactful, and meaningful relationships.

Democracy School Goals:

• Provide participants with an interactive learning experience that generates dialogue about City services, programs, and responsibilities, including day-to-day operations, the challenges of City government, budget process, and limitations.
• Promote partnerships between community and government by providing a forum where local officials and community members can interact and exchange ideas.

Session Details:

The Democracy School will meet Thursdays from 6pm to 8pm for seven weeks via Zoom. Session links will be sent out to accepted participants. 

Requirements:

Given the breadth of information to be shared, participants should avoid missing sessions. Each person will be required to complete a simple class assignment, which will be further explained when class begins. It can include participating in one of the following over the seven-week period: attend a Board of Alders meeting, attend a Board of Education meeting, attend one of the mayor’s office hours, or attend a committee meeting. After each session, participants will be asked to fill out a brief survey.

To access the application for the Democracy School, visit this link. If you have any questions, please contact Omena McCoy at (203) 946-5892 or omccoy@newhavenct.gov.

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