DeSoto County High seniors train to be 911 dispatchers, stepping bravely beyond their familiar school routines. This initiative cultivates a unique blend of practical skills and emotional resilience, engaging students in a role that many can scarcely imagine.
Senior Marquez Angeles shared with Arcadia Community Correspondent Victoria Scott his enthusiasm for the program. “We all get along so well and we just spend a lot of time learning about things that very few people can do,” he remarked, reflecting on the camaraderie that this unconventional training fosters.
You can watch Victoria’s full report here:
DeSoto County High School’s 911 PST Program gains traction
Students immerse themselves in the critical world of emergency dispatching, preparing for a significant state exam that awaits them at the year’s end. It’s not just about answering phones; it’s about responding to human needs in their most vulnerable moments.
Classmate Vanessa Morgan embodies the commitment to this endeavor, as she takes on the role of a 911 dispatcher in the classroom. Her words resonate with the weight of responsibility, “Now, I have to study a lot for the tests, for the quizzes. Even for the scenarios, I have to figure out what I have to ask and how to ask it.” Each simulation casts them into real-life situations that demand quick thinking and empathy, priming them for the realities of this vital service.
Meanwhile, their teacher, Michael Davis—a former Sarasota Sheriff’s Deputy—echoes the sentiment of community growth. “We are producing employees, or increasing the applicant pool for the sheriff’s office,” he explained. His dedication to shaping young minds translates into a larger impact: bolstering the DeSoto County law enforcement personnel. They’re forging connections with surrounding counties, such as Sarasota and Charlotte, creating a collaborative network.
There’s an undeniable need for qualified 911 dispatchers, particularly in a community like DeSoto where the population is smaller. Senior Evelyn Pineda articulated this necessity succinctly: “Obviously, not a lot of people want to be 911 dispatchers, but we need them, especially here since our county is so small.” Her understanding speaks volumes about the reality of public safety in their town.
Through this program, students are trained not just to manage crises but also to thrive under pressure. Davis remarked, “We put the pressure on. They fight through the pressure, and they’re ultimately able to do something that’s really good.” The stress they face in simulations mirrors the authentic environment, translating into valuable life skills that extend well beyond the classroom walls.
As the interest in the program surges—growing from just six students last year to twenty this year—the impact becomes even more palpable. It’s not merely an alternative elective; it’s a transformative experience that shapes futures. Each participant leaves class not just as a student, but as a more prepared citizen, ready to partake in their community’s safety narrative.
