Public Participation

Bay Area Summer Academy seeks high schoolers, apply by April 25

This summer, MTC is partnering with other Bay Area regional agencies to host the Bay Area Summer Academy for high school students.



During six weekly, one-hour online seminars in July, students will learn about:

  • What regional agencies do and the skills needed for a future career in the public sector.
  • How to weigh in on decisions that impact the air we breathe, the neighborhoods we live in, how we get to work and school, spaces for exercise, and other factors that shape our communities’ health. 
  • How students can have a voice in making decisions that benefit their communities.   
  • Questions like how long is a bridge supposed to last? Why are there so many potholes? Why is housing so costly? Is the water really rising around the Bay?

Participating students will attend online sessions, complete quizzes, and at the end of the program, make a brief presentation on a local challenge involving transportation, housing, environmental justice and/or related topics.

Upon completing the Bay Area Summer Academy, students will receive a certificate to include in college, vocational and/or job applications.

To apply for the Academy, students must:

  • Live and attend high school in the Bay Area,
  • Be 16 years old and have completed the ninth grade by July,
  • Be able to attend online seminars and present on a topic related to the seminars, and
  • If the student is under 18, have the permission of a parent or guardian to participate.

Enrollment is limited, and selections will emphasize a diversity of perspectives from students across the Bay Area, particularly young people who might not otherwise consider a public sector career. Students of all races and ethnic backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Grade point averages are not considered.

Participating agencies include the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, the Association of Bay Area Governments, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and the Bay Conservation and Development Commission.

Get more information and apply for the Academy.

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