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Board approves ILA and start-up funding to host local fire-science (Snow Isle) program
Summary
The board approved an interlocal agreement with Granite Falls Fire to host a local Snow Isle fire-skills program and authorized funding to start a fire science CTE offering, citing expected initial cohorts of about 16 students and plans for Fire 1 and EMT certification pathways.
The Granite Falls School Board voted June 24 to enter an interlocal agreement with Granite Falls Fire to host a local Snow Isle fire-skills program and approved start-up funding for the new fire science CTE offering.
Directors described the arrangement as a way to provide local access to a program that previously required students to travel out of district. One director noted that "if it's right there, it's so much easier," reflecting the board's emphasis on instructional continuity and student safety.
Chief Havfield said the program will be a building year in year one with roughly 16 students expected in the initial cohort; the goal for year two is about 20 new students plus four to six returning students who can help lead instruction. The program aims to get students certified with Fire 1 and possibly EMT credentials, giving graduates a head start for employment in local departments. Board discussion noted state-age and certification rules have evolved: under recent changes, with strict oversight some certifications can be obtained before age 18, while some full-time positions or drivers of apparatus may still require older age or agency-specific limits.
Board members and the chief discussed startup costs and fundraising; the chief and others reported that donations are being sought and some commitments have been made but specific donation amounts were not disclosed in the meeting transcript. The board moved and approved the ILA and the associated funding authorization by voice vote.
The board did not record an individual roll-call tally in the transcript. Next steps described in the meeting include finalizing instructor contracts, coordinating live-fire training with partner districts for shared facilities, and aligning certification pathways so students can pursue employment or college credit after graduation.
