EVIT, Scottsdale Charros & SFD collaborate on Coronado Fire Science Academy
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Coronado High School is launching the Coronado Fire Science Academy on its campus, beginning in the 2025-26 school year.
The innovative program is a collaborative effort between the Scottsdale Unified School District, the East Valley Institute of Technology, the Scottsdale Fire Department, and the Scottsdale Charros, education leaders tell the Digital Free Press.
The Coronado Fire Science Academy is designed to provide students with hands-on experience and training the art of the fire and emergency medical services — a vital community service and American endeavor.
The Coronado Fire Science Academy is open to students at all SUSD schools, as well as those from surrounding areas, district officials report.
Students enrolled in the program will have the unique opportunity to earn industry certifications in areas such as HazMat, Wildland Firefighting, EMT, and Firefighter I and II. The program is tailored for juniors and seniors, offering a morning block of intensive, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students to be competitive candidates for fire departments and emergency services careers.
“This partnership with EVIT, Scottsdale Fire, and the Charros is a testament to our commitment to provide exceptional educational opportunities for our students and prepare them for post-secondary success,” said Melinda Splitek, Coronado High School principal. “The Fire Science Academy not only equips students with valuable skills and certifications but also connects them with mentors and professionals in the field, setting them on a path to success.”
EVIT, Scottsdale Charros & SFD collaborate on Coronado Fire Science Academy
The Fire Science Academy’s curriculum combines traditional classroom instruction with practical training, including running hoses, placing ladders, and other critical firefighting skills.
As part of this unique program, students will have direct access to mentorship from Scottsdale Fire Department personnel, who will guide them through the rigorous demands of the profession and help them build a network of industry contacts.
“We are thrilled to partner with Coronado High School in launching this Fire Science Academy,” said Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “This program is an incredible opportunity for students to gain real-world experience and prepare for careers in public safety. Our involvement ensures that students receive the highest quality training and mentorship.”
In preparation for the program’s launch, Coronado High School is hosting a series of events to generate interest and secure enrollment. These include a “Lunch and Learn” event on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at Coronado, during which SUSD students can meet academy instructors and learn more about the program.
Enrollment for the inaugural 2025-26 cohort of students will begin on Oct. 14, 2024, with a cap of 50 students.
“EVIT anchors itself in the belief that quality career and technical education programs can change lives,” said EVIT Superintendent Dr. Chad Wilson. “We are excited and grateful to partner with Coronado High School, Scottsdale Unified, and Scottsdale Fire to offer Fire Science programming at Coronado. This program will not only give students a leg up in their career goals but will build capacity for quality employees to join Scottsdale Fire and other departments around the Valley and the state.”
