The Town of Normal is rebooting its long-running civic engagement program teaching residents the ins and outs of town operations. Twenty applicants will be chosen to participate in All About Normal, an eight-week course that has been on hold since the COVID-19 pandemic.
An updated curriculum now invites people ages 15 and older to apply for the free program, which Town of Normal administrative analyst Jacob Smith said is designed to be interactive and participatory.
“This isn’t a death-by-PowerPoint program,” Smith said in a statement. “The program focuses on connecting and learning with like-minded individuals to help shape the future.”
Online applications are due Sept. 20, with priority given to Normal residents. Prior All About Normal courses were only available to adults. By expanding the age range, town officials hope to engage the next generation, with the mantra: “Community Learning for a Brighter Tomorrow.”
Tuesday evening classes, running Oct. 1 – Nov. 19, are presented in a campus-style format, meeting at various municipal buildings such as the Normal Police Department, City Hall, Children’s Discovery Museum and the Normal Theater, among others. Topics include history, public safety, planning and land use, economic development, town council, cultural enrichment and more.
Applicants will be notified by Sept. 24. A similar citizens' academy called Bloomington 101 is available to Bloomington residents, last offered in Fall 2023.
