Free video training

Government Transparency Academy

Short, plain-language videos on open meetings, open records, running a fair meeting and good policing, hosted by Ronald E. Durbin II, J.D. Watch a lesson, then take the free quiz course and earn your certificate.

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Learn by subject Free courses, tests and certificates. Sign in to track your progress.

Open meetings and agendas

What the Open Meeting Act requires, how to write a lawful agenda, running the meeting, public comment and motions.

Step-by-step meetings guide Build an agenda Open Meeting Act guide Motions chart

Open records

Answering requests, producing records, retention schedules and the public record on your phone.

Step-by-step records guide Records Portal

Money, ethics and authorities

Budgets and audits, competitive bidding, conflicts of interest and the public trusts that spend public money.

New officials and candidates

The one-hour crash course for anyone running for, or newly seated on, a council, board or commission.

Candidate and new official orientation

Police and jails

Stops, searches and force, body cameras, records compliance, jail transparency and working with the press.

For citizens

How to hold government accountable the right way, and get results.

Responsible activism

See trained officials

FreeMotions chart and pocket cardsHow every motion works, the exact words to say, common pitfalls and printable cards for the dais. FreeCourses, quizzes and certificatesSign in to track your progress and earn a spot on the Trained Officials honor roll.

MembersGovernment document builders Agenda Desk, minutes, policies, ordinances and records forms. Free account required. Sign in to use the builders

More ways to learn

Quiz courses and certificatesCourses with quizzes and a printable certificate for each. Motions chart and pocket cardsThe printable chart for board members, with exact words to say. Free agenda and minutes builderTry a basic agenda or minutes with an Open Meeting Act check. Get new videos by emailHear when the next lesson is released.

Guerrilla News is a nonprofit newsroom. The Academy is education, not legal advice. Your charter, local rules and your attorney control.