Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Career Technical Education topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Tahoe/Douglas Fire expands high-school Fire Science; proposes helibase at Wittell, seeks transport and donors
Summary
Tahoe/Douglas Fire and Douglas High School partners described hands-on Fire Science 1 & 2 classes, plans to add EMT next year, and a multiyear helibase proposal at Wittell that has raised about $2.03 million so far toward a phased $12 million goal. Presenters requested district help with transportation to bring valley students to the program.
Tahoe/Douglas Fire and Douglas High School presented a progress report on high-school Fire Science classes and described a proposed helibase that would be colocated at Wittell athletic fields.
Chief Ryan (Tahoe/Douglas Fire) described a rapidly expanding Fire Science program that now includes Fire Science 1 and Fire Science 2 classes with hands-on props, simulations and certifications intended to make students more job-ready for fire and EMS careers. "We were hearing that kids weren't motivated to come to school, and now they are," Ryan said, noting parent feedback and student enthusiasm.
Program staff showed photos of training props (roof-ventilation simulators, door-forcing props, hose loading and a confined-space maze) and said the program will offer an EMT course for seniors next year. They also noted a related Fire Explorer program for 13–17 year olds to expand recruitment earlier.
The presenters also reviewed a concept for a helibase and crew quarters at the Wittell site. The plan includes a heated helicopter pad, a hangar, and dormitory-style crew quarters; early permitting discussions with local agencies appear promising. Ryan said the campaign has raised about $2,030,000 to date toward an initial phased goal of roughly $12 million. He stressed the plan is being advanced in phases and that donors want a clear site plan before committing further funds.
District questions focused on space impacts at Wittell (shot put/discus areas) and whether existing athletics uses could be relocated; presenters said alternatives exist and that community outreach and TRPA review will be part of the permitting process. Program staff requested district support for student transportation to allow valley students to participate; the board agreed to coordinate recruiting work between district CTE staff and program leaders.
Ending note: presenters invited trustees to tour the Fire Science classroom and props; trustees signaled support for further engagement as the project progresses through permitting and fundraising.
