Town of Normal Community Education Program

All About Normal is a free civic education program hosted by the Town of Normal, Illinois. Designed to engage and educate community members about local government operations and services, the program fosters a deeper understanding of municipal processes and encourages civic participation. Originally launched in 2009 and paused during the pandemic, the program returns in 2025 with renewed focus on accessibility and inclusion. The 2025 session of All About Normal will run for eight weeks, held weekly on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., starting October 8 and ending December 10. Sessions will not be held on October 29 or November 26 due to breaks. Participants will meet at City Hall and rotate among various municipal facilities including the Normal Police Department, Normal Fire Department, the Public Library, the Children’s Discovery Museum, and the Normal Theater. The program combines speaker presentations, guided tours, interactive sessions, and group discussions to educate participants on a wide range of topics including the history of the Town, the council-manager form of government, planning and land use, economic development, public safety, and community enrichment. It aims to cultivate informed community members who understand how local decisions are made and how they can contribute to civic life. Applications are open to community members age 15 and older, regardless of prior civic involvement. While all are encouraged to apply, priority will be given to residents of the Town of Normal. A total of twenty participants will be selected for the 2025 cohort. Applications are due by Friday, September 26, 2025. Selected participants will be notified no later than Wednesday, October 1, 2025. Applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in learning about local governance and community development. No previous leadership experience is required. The program uses participatory learning methods rather than passive lecture formats, promoting active involvement and peer-to-peer engagement. To apply, candidates must complete the 2025 All About Normal application form, which is available online through the Town’s website. For additional questions or support, contact Jacob Smith, Administrative Analyst at the Town of Normal.

Emphasize genuine interest in local government and public service. Responses should reflect an intent to stay engaged with the Town of Normal after program completion.