Government & Leadership
Academy for Government & Leadership
Fundamental Requirements: Academy for Government & Leadership
The Academy for Government and Leadership provides comprehensive education in all aspects of governance with focused study in leadership principles, ethics, public policy, public administration, and international relations. Students develop expertise in critical analysis, policy evaluation, and collaborative problem-solving while exploring governmental systems, democratic processes, and real-world political challenges through both theoretical study and practical application.
Learning Experience
Students engage in diverse academic experiences including dual enrollment opportunities and Advanced Placement coursework that challenge them to think critically about complex governmental issues. The program emphasizes authentic civic engagement through discussions, debates, and collaborative projects that mirror professional public service and leadership practices.
Skills and Prerequisites for Success
Prospective students should demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, capable of processing complex political and policy information through various academic sources. The program requires individuals who can collaborate effectively in team settings while maintaining respect for differing viewpoints and opinions across diverse political perspectives.
Important Considerations
- Problem-Solving Abilities: Proficiency in addressing complex civic and policy challenges through collaborative approaches
- Public Speaking Confidence: Comfort with participating in discussions, debates, and presentations before peers and instructors
- Dual Enrollment Requirements: Participation in college-level coursework alongside high school studies
- AP Course Expectations: Engagement with Advanced Placement curriculum and examination standards
- Collaboration Skills: Ability to work effectively in team environments while respecting diverse perspectives & engaging in debates/policy discussions
- Respectful Dialogue: Maintaining professional discourse when encountering differing political viewpoints
- Team Settings: Comfort working in collaborative environments on complex governmental projects
- Academic Rigor: Preparedness for challenging coursework in political science, public policy, and international relations
This program is ideal for students who are passionate about civic engagement, enjoy rigorous academic discourse, and are prepared to engage in both classroom learning and authentic leadership development experiences.
Career Field - Government & Leadership
Career Pathways in Government & Leadership (include but are not limited to):
President, Vice President, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Mayor, Cabinet Level Secretary (Fed./ State), Representative (Fed/State), Senator (Fed/State), Assistants, Deputies, and Chiefs of Staff Commissioner (County, Parish, City), Commissioner (State Agency), Congressional Aide, Legislative Aide, Legislative Assistant, Specialist Lobbyist, Policy Advisor, City Manager, City Council, City or County Clerk, Court Administrator, Clerk, Executive Director/ Officer/Associate: Foundation Association Charitable Organization, Industrial Foundation, Chamber of Commerce, General Service Officer, Management Analysis Officer, Program Administration, Officer, Ambassador, Foreign Service Officer, Consular Officer, Administrative Officer, Political Officer, Economic Officer, Diplomatic Courier
The Academy for Government & Leadership will complete its first year of Senior internships in the year 2025.
Academy Course of Study
9th Grade
Academy: Intro to Public Administration (Semester) & Leadership & Ethics (Semester)
Core Courses:
- English 9
- Math
- Physics
- Physical Education 9
- World History
- World Language
- Visual Performing Arts Credits
10th Grade
Academy: Intro to Law (Semester) & Global Politics (Semester) - Fairleigh Dickinson Dual Enrollment (6 credits total)
Core Courses:
- Physical Education 10
- English 10
- US History I
- Math
- Chemistry
- World Language
- Personal Finance (in-person) or Money Skills (online)
11th Grade
Academy: AP Government & Politics (Full Year) Or Intro to American Government & Politics (Full Year)
Core Courses:
- Physical Education 11
- English 11
- US History II or AP US
- Math
- Biology
12th Grade at Madison High School
Structured Learning Experience (Graduation Requirement):
- All Seniors must complete 120 hours of an approved internship in their respective career fields.
Core Courses:
- Physical Education
- English 12 (Public Speaking)
Suggested:
- Current Affairs/Debate & Economics
- 4th Year of Mathematics
12th Grade at County College of Morris
Eligible Seniors may complete their Senior coursework in full or in part at the County College of Morris. See School Counseling Department for more information.
Required Courses:
FALL
- English Composition I (ENG111)
- Lifetime Wellness (HED128) or PE (labeled HES)
- Academy Course (1)
- POL-111. American Government
- POL-222. Constitutional Law
- POL-231. State and Local Government
- POL-240. International Politics
- POL-245. Comparative Government
- POL-270. Civil Liberties-Basic Rights and Freedom
- POL-291. Special Topics in Political Science
- POL-292. Special Topics in Political Science
- PUB- 111. Public Administration
- ISA-110. Intercultural Communication
- ISA-215. A Survey of Islam
SPRING
- English Composition II (ENG112)
- PE or Lifetime Wellness (whichever was not taken in the Fall)
- Academy Course (2) see list above
Structured Learning Experience
- All Seniors must complete 120 hours of an approved internship in their respective career field.
