The Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy (MCLA) provides residents with a unique opportunity to understand the inner workings of their municipal government as they engage directly with elected officials and City staff. From exploring Maricopa’s rich history, to delving into the development process and examining how our police and fire departments keep our community safe, this free program gives participants an in-depth look into what it takes to build and maintain one of the fastest growing cities in the nation.

Listen to what past attendees have to say about the program:

The Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy is held once a week in 90 minute sessions over 5 consecutive weeks. Informational sessions include topics on public safety, economic development, budget & finance, public works, and more!

In order to graduate from the program, participants must must live and/or work in the City of Maricopa, attend at least 4 out of the 5 informational sessions as well as complete one of the following acts of community engagement:

• Perform 90 minutes of community service.
• Attend (1) one City Council or Boards, Commissions and Committees Meeting

Earn your Seal of Civics Literacy

High school students are both welcomed and encouraged to attend the Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy and doing so can earn them great rewards beyond the knowledge and experience they obtain for their attendance. The City of Maricopa is proud to announce that the Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy has officially been approved by the Arizona Department of Education as a qualifying program for high school students to earn their Seal of Civics Literacy on their diplomas.

The Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy program recognizes high school students who achieve a high level of proficiency in civics. There are a number of requirements students must perform to earn this seal including completing 3 civics-based programs and least 30 hours of civic engagement. The Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy now qualifies towards both of these requirements as it is now a qualifying program that offers approximately 10 hours of civics-based learning.

Interested in attending the academy? Please see below for our upcoming session information and registration.