Water 101 Academy

What is Water 101 Academy?

The Water 101 Academy aims to educate, inspire, and empower a diverse group of community members who will advocate for safe, clean water and promote environmental stewardship in their communities. The academy is a free program for residents of Santa Clara County, ages 18 and older. Each year, the Board of Directors selects three candidates from their district from the pool of applicants to create a 21-member cohort.

Through four webinar sessions, participants will learn about the local water system and Valley Water's role in providing safe, clean water. They will also receive in-depth information on current and future water projects in their communities. The academy also includes an in-person tour of various water infrastructure projects throughout the county.

Graduates of this academy will become Water Ambassadors, a network of well-informed community advocates who help raise awareness and address misinformation on important water issues, promote available resources, and assist with Valley Water initiatives such as creek cleanups and flood preparedness outreach.

The Water 101 Academy is currently not accepting applications. Please fill out our interest form to receive updates on the next Water 101 Academy cohort for spring 2028.

Participant Requirements

• Participants must be residents of Santa Clara County.
• Participants must be at least 18 years of age.
• Participants must plan to attend all five sessions. *Dates subject to change.
  • Session 1: Thursday, April 2, 2026, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Session 2: Thursday, April 16, 2026, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Session 3: Thursday, April 30, 2026, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Session 4: Thursday, May 14, 2026, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Session 5: Saturday, May 30, 2026, time TBD (in-person bus tour)
  • Graduation: Thursday, June 4, 2026, time TBD (in-person)
• Participants must complete 80% of the program to receive the certificate of completion.

For more information, contact us at (408) 630-2723 or at [email protected].