Managing Editor Cat here. Newsletter Editor Allie and I wrapped up Raleigh Neighborhood College last spring — a free crash course in local government. Along the way, we picked up handy tools, fun facts, and met inspiring local leaders.

The spring course runs from March through May on Thursdays, offering virtual and in-person options, with dinner included, and a graduation to top it all off.

Here are just a few of my takeaways (and trust me, this barely scratches the surface).

We got two meet (and pet) the Raleigh Police Department's Mounted Unit — they have two horses. | Photo by RALtoday

Government 101

Did you know Raleigh has a Council-Manager form of government? Beginning in 2026, City Council and mayoral elections will shift to staggered four-year terms, so only part of the council is elected every two years. Check your voting district and make sure you're registered to vote.

Make your voice heard

Attend or sign up to speak at a public comment–only meeting, held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Pro tip from local leaders: Showing up matters. Additionally, there are numerous other ways to get involved.

Strengthen your neighborhood

Are you registered? Signing up for the Raleigh Neighborhood Registry gives your community access to city resources, event support (like popcorn machines + outdoor movie equipment), funding, and tools to stay connected.

Go behind the scenes

Visit the Raleigh Fire Museum at the Keeter Training Center on the second Saturday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Psst... you’re never too old for a red plastic fire hat.

Bonus: Tour Sonoco Recycling, which processes ~50,000 tons of recycling annually. Not sure what should be recycled? There's an app for that.

Make lasting memories

My favorite class memory? Visiting John Chavis Memorial Park and riding its fully restored carousel with classmates who care about Raleigh’s future — while seeing firsthand how Raleigh Parks is preserving the past, present, and future of this and other historic spaces.

Tickets to ride the Historic Allan Herschell Carousel at John Chavis Memorial Park are $2 for all riders 1 year of age and older. | Photo by RALtoday

The class offers tours, expert presenters, and experiences that deepen your connection to the city you love — shout-out to Community Relations Analyst Luis F. Olivieri-Robert for sharing his expertise with our group.<3<3<3

So, what’s giving up a few Thursdays if it means knowing your neighbors — and Raleigh — a little better? Applications for the Spring 2026 session open this November.