Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC)

Applications are now open for the MARC 2026-2027 academic year

Each of the Atlanta region’s 11 metro counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale) and the City of Atlanta are represented in the diverse range of 10th and 11th grade students that have completed the program.

The MARC Program

MARC participants go beyond classroom learning to become immersed in the planning and development of a large metro region. Leadership, communication, and collaboration are some of the skills developed as students take tours, engage in debates, complete case studies, and learn from the region’s transportation, planning, arts and culture, and human services experts.

Recent MARC experiences include:

Transformative discussions with top regional leaders and experts
Exclusive behind the scenes access to award winning facilities
Travel to multiple counties in the Atlanta region
Insights from and networking with nationally-recognized leaders

MARC Students gathered around and presenting their Community Agreements that they came up with

Quote from Yusuf Naviwala, Parkview High School, Gwinnett County: You get to learn about things that are very important and matter. You get the opportunity to experience and see things you probably wouldn't without the MARC program.

MARC students at a table working on a project together

Quote from Claire Collins, North Atlanta High School, Fulton County: Participating in the MARC was an incredible experience that opened my eyes to the challenges and opportunities shaping our community. I gained valuable insights into regional planning, transportation, and sustainability while collaborating with passionate leaders and peers.

MARC students doing an activity outside under a pergula

Quote from Reyha Parsh, The Westminster Schools, Fulton County: The MARC program was an eye-opening experience that empowered me to understand and address real-world challenges facing our communities. Collaborating with peers and regional leaders taught me the importance of teamwork and finding creative solutions. MARC inspired me to get involved and make a difference in our region’s future!

A MARC student writing something down on paper

Quote from Maxwell Watkins, Marist School, Dekalb County: MARC opened my eyes to the role of regional planning in seemingly unrelated aspects of living in Atlanta, ranging from youth soccer to our elderly population. In doing this, this program highlights the ARC's commitment to equity in planning.

MARC students gathered around a table and working on a project

Quote from Vy Le, Morrow High School, Clayton County: Participating in MARC has been an incredible experience! It has allowed me to connect with like-minded peers, explore solutions to real-world challenges, and develop leadership skills. MARC has truly empowered me to make a meaningful impact in my community.

MARC Commitment and Requirements

MARC 2026-2027 sessions are scheduled to take place in person on the following dates.

Saturday, August 8: Kick-off
Saturday, September 5: All-Day Retreat
Saturday, October 10
Saturday, November 14
Saturday, December 12
Saturday, January 23: Open House
Wednesday, March 10: ARC Board Presentation (Optional)

MARC Application

The application period for the 2026-2027 class will close on May 1, 2026.

Application criteria:

Applications must be complete for consideration.
Students must be sophomores or juniors during the 2026-2027 academic year.
Students must demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
Students must demonstrate an interest in civic and community issues.
Students are selected based on their level of service and leadership, recommendations, and responses to essay questions.

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)