Augusta County is pleased to announce the return of the Augusta County Community Academy (ACCA), an interactive program designed to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at the services, departments, and people who keep local government running. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 cohort and are due by July 17, 2026.
The free program will take place from August through October 2026, offering seven sessions that explore the many functions of county government. Details about the schedule, including dates, topics, and locations, are available on the 2026 Community Academy webpage.
Open to residents ages 18 and older, the Community Academy provides an opportunity to learn how county services are planned, funded, and delivered. Preference will be given to Augusta County residents and special consideration may be given to high-school age applicants.
Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6-9 p.m. at locations throughout Augusta County, allowing participants to experience government operations firsthand. Topics include county administration, public safety, budgeting and taxation, emergency services, courts and the justice system, parks and recreation, libraries, community partnerships, and planning for future growth.
New for 2026, participants will have the opportunity to visit the Middle River Water Treatment facility and the recently opened Augusta County Courthouse as part of the program.
Launched in 2025, the inaugural Community Academy class successfully connected residents with county government and encouraged greater civic engagement. Since completing the program, two members of the first cohort have joined Augusta County boards and commissions, helping shape local policy and contribute to their community.
"The Community Academy gives residents more knowledge and, we hope, will encourage them to become active participants in local government," said County Administrator Timothy Fitzgerald. "When people better understand how county services are delivered and how decisions are made, they are more equipped to engage, volunteer, serve on boards and commissions, and help shape Augusta County's future. Seeing graduates from our first class take that next step has been one of the program's greatest successes."
Feedback from the first academy cohort highlighted the program's impact. Participants cited learning about the wide range of county services, meeting department leaders and staff, touring county facilities, and gaining a greater appreciation for the people who serve Augusta County every day.
One participant shared, "Meeting the people who manage these programs, and seeing their intelligence, skill, and passion for Augusta County made me appreciate how lucky I am to be living here. It will enable me to be a very positive ambassador for Augusta County."
Participants who complete the program will be recognized during the Augusta County Board of Supervisors meeting on October 28, 2026.
To apply and to see details about the 2026 schedule including dates, topics, and locations, visit the 2026 Community Academy webpage. Space is limited.
Paper copies of the application are also available. Please email or call the number below to request one.
For general information about the Augusta County Community Academy and to apply, visit the Community Academy webpage or contact academy@co.augusta.va.us or (540) 245-5600.
