Citizens In Our Schools

The online application for the Class of '26 was open through midnight on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The application window is currently closed.

Each year, we aim for a cohort size of 20-25 people.

Applicants selected for this year's cohort will be notified via email in mid-August.

Efforts will be made to select a cohort of individuals who bring a variety of experiences and perspectives to the table. The selection team will take all information on the application into account and will consider each participant’s current and past involvement with FHSD, public service, community connections and ability to educate others about what they learned. Care will be taken to avoid multiple participants from the same household or organization. The team will also look for individuals who are leaders in the community or who have the willingness and desire to become leaders.

Because of our sponsors' generous support, we have eliminated the tuition fee for this year's class! Participants only need to cover the cost to obtain a valid background check (approximately $57).

To get the most out of the program, participants are expected to attend all sessions. However, we understand that illnesses and emergencies happen. Participants need to attend at least seven program days to graduate with their cohort.

Most sessions are on the first Wednesday of the month and run from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; however, these are subject to change based on holidays or other events. The opening reception and graduation celebration are evening events.

No. Current FHSD employees and students are not eligible.

The program is open to adults who live or work in the Francis Howell School District attendance zone. This includes current and former parents/guardians, grandparents, business owners, residents who do not have kids in our schools, leaders of civic organizations, and other community members who have a vested interest in the District’s success. (Current full-time FHSD employees and students are not eligible.)

Through this program, participants will gain a much better understanding of where their tax dollars go. They’ll get to meet and connect with other community thought leaders as they journey through this program together. And they have the opportunity to provide input directly to district decision-makers.

Yes, we look forward to operating the program for many years to come with a new cohort each year. Once a participant graduates from the program, they’ll join our Citizens In Our Schools alumni group and will hopefully stay engaged with the District, provide feedback on the program, and attend the opening reception for future cohorts.