Learn About Your City. Build Leadership Skills. Make Your Voice Heard.

Applications are now open for the Newark Youth Leadership Academy, a six-week program that gives Newark high school students an inside look at local government while helping them build leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills.

What is the Newark Youth Leadership Academy?

The Newark Youth Leadership Academy is a hands-on program designed to connect young people with their community and local government.

Over six weeks, participants will meet City leaders and staff, explore different City departments, learn how decisions are made, and discover the many ways local government impacts their everyday lives.

Students will participate in interactive activities, develop leadership and communication skills, and work together throughout the program, culminating in a mock City Council meeting.

Who Can Participate?

The Academy is open to Newark high school students in grades 9–12 who are interested in learning more about their community, developing leadership skills, and discovering how they can make a difference.

No previous leadership or government experience is necessary—just an interest in learning, participating, and getting involved.

What Will Participants Experience?

Throughout the Academy, students will:

• Get a behind-the-scenes look at City government
• Meet City staff and local leaders
• Learn about different City departments and careers
• Build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills
• Learn how local decisions are made
• Participate in hands-on activities and discussions
• Work with fellow students on a culminating activity
• Take part in a mock City Council meeting

Program Schedule

The Newark Youth Leadership Academy will meet on Wednesdays from September 30 through November 4, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Participants are expected to attend all six sessions and actively participate in Academy activities.

Apply

Applications are now open! Scroll down to fill out your application today.

Students interested in participating should submit an application by Friday, September 18, 2026.

Space is limited.

Questions?

For questions about the Newark Youth Leadership Academy, please contact Communications and Public Engagement Manager Colleen Lettire at colleen.lettire@newarkca.gov.