PGFD High School Cadets Graduate - Program Expansion Announced

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930

mebrady@co.pg.md.us     @PGFDPIO

The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services Department conducted a graduation commencement of our second class of high school cadets from the Charles Flowers High School in Springdale.  Sixteen high school seniors successfully completed the Fire Science Cadet Program and received their certificates on Tuesday, May 26. 

This two-year high school cadet program allows students to take fire and emergency medical services classes, while earning up to 17 college credits to those who successfully complete the curriculum.  Additionally, students who graduate from the program with have received all necessary training to be nationally certified as firefighters and Emergency Medical Technicians.

The High School Fire Science Cadet Program would not be possible without the phenomenal cooperation and steadfast support from County Executive Rushern L, Baker III, Chief Executive Officer of Public Schools Dr. Kevin Maxwell, and the entire cadre of staff within the school system, especially at Flowers High School. Without that cooperation and support, this program would not be possible. That cooperative effort between the County and the schools will serve us well, as we work towards opening our second Fire/EMS Cadet program at Gwynn Park High School this coming academic year.

Prince George's County Fire Chief Marc S. Bashoor stated, "To our Fire/EMS cadets - I am honored to be a part of your graduation ceremony and to have you as part of our fire service family.  You and your families have reason to be excited and exceedingly proud - proud of your educational achievements, proud of your dedication to community service, and excited about the profound life-changing opportunities that rest on your doorstep.  I trust that many of you will avail yourselves of the Department entrance-exam which will be offered in the coming months."

County Executive Baker congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to continue their education and growth.  Baker stated, "I am so very proud of each and every one of you on your accomplishments.  Each of you are a shining star for Prince George’s County"

2015 Graduates of the High School Fire Science Cadet Program

JYIR BONHAM

JOHN BURGESS

DERMAINE CHAMBERS-WALKER

*TYLER COOK

JEFFREY FREELAND

ASIAH HOWARD

JUBEMI JEFFERSON

ANDY KOUACOU

REUBEN MACKINTOSH-IGHOR

*JONATHAN MITCHELL

CARTER MUNDY

*NICOLE MURPHY

*FERNANDO SERNA

*KIRK SPENCER

DANIEL WHITE

                                                                  DARIUS WHITE

*  With Honors

Several awards of distinction were presented during the graduation ceremony.  The awards presented included: 

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Scholastic Achievement Award

The Emergency Medical Services award is presented to the cadet that has achieved the highest academic average on the Emergency Medical Services written and practical examinations. The cadet average score was 84%.  The recipient of the Emergency Medical Services award is John Burgess.

Award Recipient – John Burgess

Instructor’s Award

The Instructor’s Award is presented to an individual cadet in the High School Fire Science program who has shown the highest level of development, and dedication during the class.  In short, we identify the cadet who has contributed significantly to the success of the class overall, either by helping others or through self-improvement.  The recipient of the Instructor’s award is Asiah Howard.

Award Recipient – Asiah Howard

(l to r) Gordan Brown (Principal of Charles Flowers HS), Dr. Kevin Maxwell, County Executive Baker, Cadet Asiah Howard and Fire Chief Bashoor

Fire Suppression Scholastic Achievement Award

The Fire Suppression Scholastic Achievement Award is presented to the cadet who achieved the highest academic average on the fire suppression written examinations and practical evolutions. The student average score was 82%.  The recipient of the Fire Suppression Scholastic Achievement award is Jonathan Mitchell.

Award Recipient – Jonathan Mitchell

Cadet Jonathan Mitchell with County Executive Baker and Fire Chief Bashoor

Fire Chief’s Award

The Fire Chief's Award is the highest recognition for Cadets.  This award is bestowed on an individual in recognition of achievements that have made significant contributions to the graduating class.  Selection criteria emphasize leadership, professional development, integrity, performance, and personal growth.  The recipient of the Fire Chief’s award is Kirk Spencer. 

Award Recipient – Nicole Murphy

Cadet Nicole Murphy

Principals Award

The Principal’s Award is a very special recognition presented to an outstanding cadet who has displayed that rarest combination of leadership, courage, and professionalism. This cadet has consistently demonstrated leadership, is respectful to classmates and instructors and is enthusiastic about the program.  The recipient of the Principal’s award is Fernando Serna.

Award Recipient – Fernando Serna

Cadet Fernando Serna