Frenship ISD is proud to announce the success of the first students to complete the Frenship High School Fire Academy program, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway designed to prepare students for careers in firefighting and emergency services.
Through a partnership with South Plains College and Lubbock Fire Rescue, students in the program earned dual credit while participating in hands-on training and learning industry skills needed for careers in the fire rescue field. The program gives students real-world experience while helping them build a foundation for future certifications and employment opportunities.
Ira Florez, the Director of Career & Technical Education at Frenship ISD, explained that the Fire Academy program provides students with another meaningful career pathway and has already created excitement among students interested in emergency services careers. Ten students are already set to participate in next year’s cohort as the program continues to grow.
While students who complete the academy are not yet fully certified as firefighters, graduates will continue their training by earning EMT certification before completing firefighter certification requirements. Students leave the program with college credit, industry training, and valuable experience that prepares them for careers in emergency response.
A major milestone for the program took place earlier this month when the first Fire Academy cohort participated in the South Plains College graduation ceremony, marking the completion of Frenship’s inaugural Fire Academy class.
Frenship High School senior and Fire Academy graduate Mia Cordero said she first became interested in the program after hearing about it from a fellow student. After learning more about the academy, she quickly realized it was a career path she wanted to pursue.
“The major things I’ve learned in this program are responsibility, accountability, and honesty,” Cordero said. “Looking back at the first couple of days of school, I wouldn’t have imagined the people in the program would become some of my closest friends.”
Cordero explained that the program challenged her to stay committed through constant studying and hands-on training, but it also helped her discover more about herself and her future goals. She plans to continue this path by earning her EMT certification and starting a career in firefighting.
Students who completed the Fire Academy program include Jordan Buchanan, Mia Cordero, Logan Green, Diego Lucero, and Parker Myers.
Congratulations, students!