On Wednesday, June 19th, 2024, students, families and staff gathered to celebrate the graduation of the First Responder Mentorship Program. This program, open to secondary students in Milton, had seen these dedicated students through a rewarding semester of real-world experiences.
The First Responder Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) at is designed to immerse students in the world of first responders, offering invaluable connections and hands-on experiences. Throughout the semester, students had worked alongside Halton Regional Police Services (HRPS), the Milton Fire Department, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), dispatch, social workers, and more. They worked through a variety of case studies, gaining insights and skills that would serve them well in their future careers.
The ceremony began with opening remarks, emphasizing the achievements of the students, their commitment to making a difference in the community, and the dedication of the HRPS officers that worked hard to make this program a success.
The ceremony also featured speeches from a few of the graduating students. They shared their journeys and how the program had been a life-changing experience. Working alongside first responders had taught them about resilience, teamwork, and compassion.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the graduates received their certificates, each one a testament to their hard work and perseverance.
Congratulations to graduating students of the First Responder Mentorship Program, and thank you to staff and first responders for your invaluable leadership!
