STC, Mission CISD empower students to become first responders

For the first time in Hidalgo County history, six high school seniors graduated not only with diplomas, but with hands-on firefighter training already under their belts as South Texas College Dual Credit Fire Academy graduates.

Through this opportunity, made possible by a long-standing partnership with the Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD), these graduates are now prepared to enter the fire service, debt-free and ready to serve as future pillars of strength in their community.

“It’s incredible. We’re so proud to celebrate this historic achievement,” said STC’s Associate Vice President of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships Rebecca De Leon, Ed.D. “This cohort represents a significant milestone in the success of our Dual Credit Programs and highlights the power of collaboration. These young men are paving the way for future fire science students, and we are excited to see them thrive as they step into the next chapter of their journey in public service.”

In the summer of 2024, while hundreds of incoming seniors enjoyed a well-earned break, a determined group of students chose a different path.

As part of the inaugural cohort of STC’s Dual Credit Fire Academy, these now-graduates began their journey with college-level courses over the summer, followed by a rigorous fall and spring schedule that balanced high school classes in the morning and firefighter training in the afternoon during their senior year.

Offered at no cost through STC and Mission CISD’s partnership and specifically designed to accommodate both high school and college classes, this program represented a life-changing opportunity.

For Mission High School graduate, Angel Uribe, whose dream of becoming a firefighter had been years in the making, the program was a perfect match.

“When I was young, I was in a car accident so serious that my mom had to be extricated from the vehicle,” he shared. “Watching the firefighters help her inspired me.”

The Mission native said that witnessing those first responders in action left a lasting impression and sparked a lifelong goal of helping others.

“I want to help people the way we were helped. I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to be a firefighter, and now, coming full circle, I’ve even learned how to perform extractions and rescue people myself,” he said. “Getting to do this at no cost to me or my family is amazing. I’m really grateful for this opportunity, it’s an honor to be one of the first students to graduate from STC’s Dual Credit Fire Academy.”

Kevin Gonzalez, a graduate of Mission Collegiate High School, shared that sentiment, feeling a strong calling to become a firefighter after being inspired by the bravery and presence of first responders in his community.

“I grew up watching fire engines pass by, and every time, I’d wonder what it would be like to be on one, out there, helping people,” he said. “When I found out my school offered this program, I felt incredibly lucky. I didn’t hesitate to take the opportunity.”

He recalled a moment early in the program when his counselors and instructors emphasized just how groundbreaking their journey was, one that could inspire other young people to follow in their footsteps.

“They told us, ‘You’re making history, people will remember this forever,’” Gonzalez said. “I’m really proud to be part of this first cohort and hopefully set an example for other students like us. We started this journey at 16 or 17 and now, at 18, we’re ready to begin our careers. That’s something most students our age don’t get to say.”

From hose handling, forcible entry and search and rescue operations to live fire exercises and scaling a 75-foot ladder, the graduates underwent intense, hands-on training and are now prepared to take the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) examination, the final step toward becoming certified firefighters.

And, guided by the mentorship of the Mission Fire Department throughout the year-round program, they also built professional networks and gained real-world insight that will support them as they enter the field.

“Our partnership with STC continues to be a gamechanger for our students,” said Mission CISD Superintendent Cris Valdez, Ed.D. “The Dual Credit Fire Academy is a powerful example of what’s possible when education meets opportunity.”

Following the success of this groundbreaking first year, the program has recently announced the launch of a second cohort, welcoming more students from across all Mission CISD high schools and setting a powerful path for future generations to follow.

“Watching our students graduate with their Basic Firefighter Certification, while still in high school, is a testament to their dedication and to the strength of this program,” added Valdez. “We’re proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to expanding its reach as we launch our next cohort.”