Welcome to the Virtual Academy – an online resource library containing informational videos on topics relevant to local governments in Pennsylvania. Taught by credentialed professionals and subject matter experts, over 30 hours of instruction from our 2020 Program Year are available for a nominal subscription fee.

The Virtual Academy has digital and print-friendly educational materials to support local leaders, public officials, public employees and citizens in making decisions to achieve a responsive local government system and build collaborations and partnerships. Coming in 2021 are How-To videos on technical matters related to municipal finance and public sector human resources.

A one-year subscription can be purchased for $75 or as part of a membership to the Leadership Circle.

The Virtual Academy is based upon the “Pillars of Good Government” that identify fundamental obligations and expectations of well-governed and managed communities. These research-proven standards provide for the objective evaluation of the value and performance of local government:

• Budget & Finance
• Community Development
• Powers & Duties
• Ethics
• Infrastructure & Public Works
• Intergovernmental Cooperation
• Public Safety
• Public Sector Human Resource Management