Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  Gulf Shores wrapped up its first-ever Gulf Shores 101 Citizenship Academy after eight weeks of programming that gave residents a close look at how city government operates. Thirty residents participated in the inaugural class. The academy covered departments, services, and the employees who keep Gulf Shores running every day.

The program kicked off with City Administrator Jon Walker and Mayor Robert Craft, who provided participants with an overview of local government operations and the city budget. From there, residents met with leaders from the Gulf Shores Police Department, Administration, Recreation & Cultural Affairs, Community Development, Public Works & Engineering, Gulf Shores Fire Rescue, Gulf Shores City Schools, and Gulf Shores International Airport.

Each session was interactive and hands-on. Some featured educational games, while others offered live demonstrations. Topics ranged from public safety and emergency response to parks and recreation, infrastructure projects, planning and development, and financial stewardship.

Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions and speak directly with city leaders. The experience helped residents put faces to department names and learn more about the employees who work behind the scenes. Attendees also gained a clearer picture of how tax dollars are invested and used throughout the city.

Participant Dawn Burgess spoke to the program's value. "Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of this academy is that it has helped us become more informed, engaged, and connected citizens. It has given us a better understanding of how each of us can play a role in making our community even better," Burgess said.

The city plans to continue the program. Applications for the next Gulf Shores 101 Academy will open in January, and classes are scheduled to begin in March 2027. Residents interested in joining the next class can watch for the application window to open on the city's website.