Morrilton High School (MHS) received a $51,867 Start-Up Grant for the 2023-2024 school year from the Division of Career and Technical Education (DCTE). The purpose of the Start-Up Grant is to implement a firefighting pathway that will give MHS students the opportunity to learn the knowledge and skills that will enable them to receive their firefighting certification. They may also choose to go on to receive their EMT certification. Courses provided include two levels of firefighting and an advanced course in emergency preparedness. Students will learn about firefighter health, safety, situational awareness, and responsible use of personal protective equipment (PPE). According to O*Net Online, firefighters in Arkansas earn an average wage of $36,750. With partnerships from all of our county fire departments, this program will invest in our local community by increasing the number of trained firefighters/EMS that are available to serve as volunteer firefighters and first responders. The grant will be used to purchase equipment, training, and industry-recognized credentials, with the grant providing 85% of the cost and the South Conway County School District 15%.
The South Conway County School District would like to thank our local fire departments for their support and donations of classroom equipment to help initiate this program. The district also appreciates the assistance that Arch Ford Educational Service Cooperative Career and Technical Coordinator, Lori Mitchell, gave the district throughout the grant process.