Vinson Institute, ACCG Unveil New Commissioners Certification Program
Georgia's county commissioners can now take advantage of an exciting new training and certification program recently finalized by the Vinson Institute and the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. Called the Lifelong Learning Academy, the new program offers commissioners foundational knowledge in key topics of county governance while also providing the opportunity for sustained development in a variety of specialized subjects.
The Academy centers around three levels of professional development—Core Certification, Specialty Level Certification, and certification maintenance through continuing education. To achieve Core Certification, commissioners participate in eight courses that delve into fundamental topics important to county government. Courses cover such subjects as law, finance, human resources, and economic development. Commissioners must also successfully complete the ACCG Leadership Institute.
A powerful and innovative feature of the Lifelong Learning Academy is the chance for commissioners to hone their knowledge in particular subjects of interest through Specialty Level Certification. "The ability for commissioners to focus on improving their skills in a specific area is what really sets this new program apart," said Vinson Institute Director Laura Meadows. "The Lifelong Learning Academy embraces the true concept of 'professional development' by treating commissioners like what they are—skilled and knowledgeable professionals leading in local government, which is a crucial part of society."
Once commissioners satisfy the requirements for Core Certification, they can deepen their expertise by taking courses focused on one of eight topics—Revenue & Finance, Economic and Community Development, Citizen Engagement, Leadership Development, County Operations and Management, Intergovernmental Relations, Public Safety, and Quality of Life and Social Issues. Each of these specializations requires completion of eight courses from a list of core and elective offerings. Commissioners can continue to advance their range of proficiency over the course of their careers by pursuing multiple Specialty Level Certifications.
Finally, the Lifelong Learning Academy lives up to its name by encouraging sustained professional development with the requirement for annual continuing education. To maintain certifications, commissioners are responsible for 18 hours of continuing education credit per year, which can be earned in a variety of ways. Commissioners can receive Standard of Excellence credit by attending ACCG conference sessions, committee and district meetings, Mobile Classrooms, specialized training, and other events. They can even apply for up to 6 hours of credit each year for leadership and training programs they engage in outside ACCG-organized events.
