New London City Clerk Jonathan Ayala recently completed his first year of studies at the New England Municipal Clerks’ Institute at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire.

The first year of study is an introductory course in public administration with interactive classes on communication skills, decision-making, management theory, inter-government relations and written communications.

Clerks in the first year study practical lessons in general and theoretical courses.

The New England Municipal Clerks Institute is a three-year program, which assists clerks in developing and maintaining the high level of administrative expertise needed for the successful operation of increasingly complex municipal governments, according to a statement from the institute.

Completion of the three-year program entitles graduates to apply for the International Institute of Municipal Clerks’ Certified Municipal Clerk designation.