Preparing The Next Generation Of Health Heroes In Dallas Classrooms

When Clifton enters Franklin D. Roosevelt High School of Innovation, his initial class prioritizes physical conditioning over traditional academics. He heads to the gym for strength, agility, and fitness training, crucial for his aspirations to become a firefighter.Clifton and his peers represent the pioneering cohort at Roosevelt, poised to graduate as certified firefighters and EMTs, complete with a job offer from Dallas Fire Rescue.He describes the program as transformative. “It’s a chance for stability right after high school,” he stated, revealing how it inspires him to envision his future. “I seized this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he added, affirming his career ambitions in firefighting.As a P-TECH initiative, interested students must apply and fulfill GPA standards. Accepted candidates delve into fire science and emergency medical services, gaining hands-on experience with training mannequins and firefighting tools. Weekly, they visit fire stations for practical training.Under the guidance of Dallas College’s Lieutenant James Hunter, the program emphasizes community service. “It’s fulfilling to nurture future firefighters,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of teamwork within the class.