05/30/2026
Applications Are Now Open — Candidates’ Coach Academy
Progressive candidates and their campaign managers in the Northwest Suburbs are invited to apply for the 2027 Cadre of the Candidates’ Coach Academy (CCA).
Since 2019, CCA has built a proven track record training and coaching progressive candidates for local elections for municipal and school board offices. Covered positions include Mayor, Village/City Trustee, Township Trustee, Library Board, Park Board, and School Board. This one-of-a-kind free program provides just-in-time training and coaching through the election cycle. In the 2025 consolidated municipal elections, 28 out of 30 participants won their elections.
Workshops include The Petition Drive, Fundraising, Campaign Boot Camp, Campaign Finances, Messaging, Social Media, Preparing for Debates and Forums and more. The first two workshops are held on Thursday evenings, one in July and one in August. In the fall, one or two workshops per month are held Saturday mornings, so as not to interfere with campaign time. The program also facilitates networking and collaboration among candidates.
The CCA is a free program started by former campaign manager Mark Michaels. It is held in collaboration with the Barrington, Elk Grove, Palatine, and Wheeling Township Democratic Organizations.
Applications will be accepted till June 26, 2026. They will be reviewed by a committee consisting of the participating Democratic Committee Persons and CCA leaders. Successful candidates will be notified of their acceptance by July 1, with the first class being held Thursday, July 9th.
Interested candidates and campaign staff members must apply using the QR code below or at https://forms.gle/a82yhBBxmbGEo8SQA
The campaign season begins August 15th with petition gathering. So, apply now.
