For High Point residents who’ve ever wondered what city government actually does – or how to get more involved in civic life – now there’s a free eight-week class that promises a front-row seat for that.

The City of High Point has launched “High Point 101,” a new civic engagement program that gives selected residents a behind-the-scenes look at how the city operates. The program is designed to increase transparency, improve communication with residents and encourage long-term involvement.

The first session of High Point 101 will begin in the coming weeks, and the city is currently accepting applications for the inaugural class.

The deadline to apply is Monday, August 11.

Only 20 applicants will be selected.  They have to be High Point residents age 18 or older. Those chosen will be notified later this month and will receive a welcome packet with all the details.

Each Thursday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., participants will meet at a different location in the city, where they’ll hear from department heads, meet with staff, tour facilities and learn how decisions are made and services are delivered.

As an added enticement, light meals will be provided at each session.

To successfully complete the program, participants have to attend at least seven of the eight weekly sessions – and attendance at the first session is mandatory.

They’ll also be required to attend one City Council meeting during the course of the program to see their government in action.

After the final session, graduates will be formally recognized during a High Point City Council meeting and be encouraged to continue their involvement in local government, whether through boards and commissions or volunteer opportunities.

According to the city, High Point 101 is a chance for residents to explore departments they may never have interacted with and to ask questions of government officials in a relaxed, conversational setting.

The program is part of a broader effort by city leaders to strengthen civic connections and give residents the tools to better understand how public decisions are made – and how they can participate in the process.

Applications and more information are available at www.HighPointNC.gov/HighPoint101.

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