A groundbreaking initiative to train high school students as certified firefighters is set to launch in Winona, Minnesota, following discussions at the recent Winona Area Public School District Board meeting. The program, spearheaded by local fire officials, aims to address the growing need for volunteer firefighters in the community.

The proposed course will be taught online by Brad Bartelson, a former teacher and current fire captain, alongside Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Chpleski. Students will engage in asynchronous learning from September to May, with a total of seven days dedicated to hands-on training, culminating in a controlled burn exercise. Successful participants will receive certification that allows them to join local volunteer fire departments.

"This initiative is a proactive step to ensure we have a steady pipeline of trained volunteers," said a school board member. The program is designed to fit into students' schedules as a zero-hour independent study, allowing them to balance it with their regular coursework.

Concerns regarding safety and liability were raised during the meeting, particularly about the risks associated with live training exercises. Board members emphasized the importance of oversight and potential waivers to protect both students and the school district.

The program is expected to attract interest from students, with a proposed cap of 10 to 15 participants to ensure adequate support. Funding details are still being finalized, with discussions about potential grants to cover necessary equipment and training costs.

"This is an exciting opportunity for our students and the community," said a board member, highlighting the historical context of similar programs in the area. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering local talent and addressing the critical shortage of volunteer firefighters, as many are drawn to larger departments in nearby cities.

As the program moves forward, the school board will review and finalize the budget, ensuring that all financial aspects are transparent and accounted for. The community's support is anticipated to play a crucial role in the program's success, paving the way for a new generation of firefighters in Winona.