High school students in east-central Alberta could soon earn professional firefighting credentials alongside their diplomas.
Senior administration presented an update to the Clearview Board of Trustees during its Aug. 20 meeting, outlining post-secondary and industry certifications for first responders.
Division leaders are looking at a partnership between the Town of Stettler and Wm. E. Hay Stettler Secondary Campus to launch a Firefighting Academy during school hours.
Considerations for the local program include timetabling and operational costs for certified teacher staff and personal protective equipment (PPE).
The initiatives follow recent shifts in local emergency services, which saw the County of Stettler form a separate fire department after previously operating a joint service with the Town of Stettler.
Clearview administration is also pursuing a broader regional plan alongside Northland School Division, Buffalo Trail Public Schools, and Prairie Land School Division.
The four divisions have drafted a proposal for Alberta Education to establish a collaborative Rural Emergency Services Collegiate.
Beyond firefighting, the proposed curriculum also includes paramedicine and health care aide training through post-secondary lab partnerships.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
