Get to know your city: Scottsdale citizen academies offer behind-the-scenes look at local government

Ever wondered what happens inside a police crime lab, how Scottsdale prepares for emergencies, where the city’s water comes from or what it takes to prosecute a criminal case? Scottsdale residents can find out through a variety of citizen academies that provide an inside look at the services and people who help keep the city running.

From public safety and water management to local government operations, Scottsdale’s citizen academies are designed to educate, engage and connect residents with the programs and professionals serving the community every day.

“An informed and engaged community is one of Scottsdale’s greatest strengths,” said Scottsdale City Manager Greg Caton. “These academies give residents a unique opportunity to see firsthand how city services are delivered, meet the people behind the work and gain a deeper understanding of the decisions and investments that support our high quality of life.”

The city offers several academy programs throughout the year:

Scottsdale Police Citizens Academy

The Scottsdale Police Citizens Academy is a 10-week program that provides participants with an in-depth understanding of police operations and community policing efforts.

Participants hear directly from specialized units and divisions, including the Training Unit, Crime Laboratory, Real-Time Crime Center, Communications, Detention and School Resource Officers. The academy also features demonstrations from the K-9 Unit, Mounted Unit and Motor Officers.

The academy is open to Scottsdale residents, Scottsdale business owners and employees, and city of Scottsdale staff members age 18 and older. Classes are offered twice each year and are held Wednesday evenings. Learn more at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search "Police Citizens Academy."

Scottsdale Fire Citizens Academy

The Scottsdale Fire Department offers a six-week citizens academy, typically held in the spring and fall, that provides a well-rounded look at fire service operations and emergency response.

The academy combines classroom-style presentations with hands-on learning experiences at a variety of locations, including the department’s administration building, fire stations and training center. Participants take part in activities such as technical rescue team demonstrations, hose handling exercises and vehicle extrication scenarios while learning about emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, fire prevention and inspection programs.

The experience allows residents to gain a deeper understanding of the department’s operations, capabilities and challenges while connecting with the firefighters and emergency personnel who serve the community. Residents interested in participating can express interest by emailing [email protected].

Scottsdale Water Citizens Academy

The Scottsdale Water Citizens Academy provides residents with a comprehensive look at the city’s water system and long-term water planning efforts.

Participants tour key facilities including the Central Arizona Project treatment plant, Water Quality Lab, Advanced Water Treatment Plant, Chaparral Water Treatment Plant and Xeriscape Garden. Graduates leave with a greater understanding of Scottsdale’s diversified water portfolio, including surface water, groundwater and recycled water, as well as the city’s conservation and demand-management strategies.

The next Water Citizens Academy is scheduled for Sept. 16 through Oct. 14. Registration opens Aug. 12. Learn more at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search "Water Citizen Academy."

Scottsdale Government 101 Citizens Academy

Scottsdale Government 101 is a free citizen academy designed to foster a community of informed and engaged residents. Through interactive classes led by city leaders and department directors, participants gain a deeper understanding of local government, public policy and the many services that support Scottsdale’s quality of life.

The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including an overview of Scottsdale government, the roles of the city manager and charter officers, transportation and infrastructure, parks and recreation, human services, planning and development services, economic development, tourism and events, public safety, Scottsdale City Court, Scottsdale Water and volunteer opportunities. Participants also take part in a city driving tour to see many of these services and projects firsthand.

Beyond learning about city operations, Scottsdale Government 101 encourages civic engagement through group discussions, hands-on activities, networking opportunities and community-focused projects. The program connects residents with others who share a passion for community involvement while providing practical ways to apply their knowledge to benefit Scottsdale. Scottsdale Government 101 is held each spring. Learn more about the program and join the waitlist at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search "Scottsdale Government 101."

Citizen’s Prosecution Academy

Hosted by the City Attorney’s Office, the Citizen’s Prosecution Academy gives residents a unique opportunity to learn how criminal cases move through the justice system.

Held each spring at Scottsdale City Court, the one-day program includes behind-the-scenes insight into the work of prosecutors and features mock trials focused on domestic violence and driving under the influence cases. Participants gain firsthand experience with courtroom proceedings and learn how the City Attorney’s Office works to protect public safety and support victims. Subscribe to Scottsdale Update, the city's weekly digital newsletter, to be notified about the next Citizen’s Prosecution Academy date.

“These programs help build meaningful connections between residents and their local government,” said Community Involvement Manager Joy Racine. “Whether someone is interested in public safety, water resources, the legal system or city operations, there’s an opportunity to learn more about the services that impact daily life and discover ways to become more involved in the community.”