A new first responders academy is set to launch this fall in Medicine Hat. (Photo: Toa555 | Dreamstime.com)

By Jesse Gill

First responders academy coming to Medicine Hat high school

Jan 28, 2025 | 8:39 AM

An opportunity for students to get hands-on training and real-world experience with the Medicine Hat Police Services and Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services is coming to Monsignor McCoy High School this fall.

Nick Gale, deputy superintendent with the Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education, said Medicine Hat College is also a partner with the first responders’ academy and they are working on developing dual credit opportunities for students.

“Really right now, there’s a bit of a drive going on to really focus on careers and what we can do for our high school students that would promote more career readiness,” Gale said.

“We thought this was a really great opportunity that we could partner up with our local police and firefighters and assist our students kind of get along the road further there.”

Gale adds that for those interested in a career in policing or firefighting, this is a great opportunity to get some mentorship, become more physically fit and active, and understand what those roles are going to look like in that career.

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He said it didn’t take long to sell the program to the police and fire, as they both came on board immediately, with an opportunity to mentor students and shape their future applicants.

Gale said the course can also benefit the students when they apply as it can help students build their resumes.

“Part of the training will be the students will get to have an opportunity to take first aid training,” Gale said.

“Then once actually they’re into their Grade 12 year, our intention right now is to offer all of our students a 911 training program as well, that will leave high school being trained 911 operators.”

The program is still being developed but is expected to be a few days each week in the classroom followed by afternoons working on policing or firefighting with those organizations.

Registration for the 2025-26 school year begins on Monday.

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