The City of Lake Charles, in collaboration with the Lake Charles Fire Department (LCFD) and the Calcasieu Parish School Board (CPSB), has announced a new High School Fire Academy. The program is scheduled to commence in the fall of 2025 at the College Street Vocational Center. It will be integrated with a Criminal Justice Course focusing on law, public safety, corrections, and security.
Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. "We are always thrilled to announce new partnerships, but this one in particular, I am extremely excited to see coming to fruition," he stated. Mayor Hunter credited Chief Delton Carter for developing the idea and working closely with CPSB officials to create a comprehensive plan for the academy.
The program's schedule includes sessions five days a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday dedicated to fire training, while Tuesday and Thursday focus on criminal justice education. CPSB Superintendent Dr. Jason VanMetre highlighted the importance of this addition for students: "We are excited to add this incredible opportunity to our already robust course list for high school students."
Open to juniors and seniors enrolled in CPSB schools, the pilot program aims to provide basic firefighter certification. LCFD Chief Delton Carter emphasized its significance: "The fire service is steeped in a proud tradition focused on the protection of life and property." He expressed readiness to welcome aspiring firefighters into this career path.
Interested students can reach out via email at cte@cpsb.org for assistance from a Career Coach who will facilitate scheduling through their respective schools.
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