Cripple Creek & Victor High School Fire Science Class: A Glimpse into Future Careers
Ashton Brown, a junior at Cripple Creek & Victor Jr. Sr. High School, was thrilled to learn about the new fire science class, expressing his long-held dream of becoming a firefighter. “Oh my gosh! I always wanted to be a firefighter since I was a little kid. I can get my certificate after two years,” he exclaimed.
This class is part of the Career and Technical Education curriculum, providing students with career possibilities before graduation. Randy Munch, a firefighter and the program’s founder, started it six years ago. Emphasizing the need for such training, Munch remarked, “They can take this certification just about anywhere in the United States,” explaining the necessity of this career education.
Munch takes a realistic approach to firefighting, showing students a documentary highlighting the potential dangers they might face. However, he also stresses the importance of their roles, noting that 80% of emergency calls are medical in nature. Junior Chance Renner reflected on this, saying, “I just like helping people out, even though I might be scared. Mr. Munch is a great teacher, awesome and knowledgeable.”
Recently, Munch organized a training session at Four Mile Fire with Chief Chris Hawkins, where students participated in ladder training, vehicle extrication, and wildland firefighting. As part of their education, students can earn EMT certification, funded by Four Mile with a commitment to volunteer work. Chief Hawkins noted, “If the kids are serious about this, Four Mile will pay for the certification, if they’re willing to volunteer.”
Junior Elliot Larson appreciates the class’s hands-on nature, stating, “You’re not sitting in a classroom; you’re actually out there doing stuff.” For Madison Mead, a senior, the class brings back memories of Mr. Munch’s timely response when she was a child. “While she isn’t sure about a career, the lifesaving connection was a motivator.”
Elai Kizk, aiming to become either a wildland firefighter or a Marine, finds the class exciting. After graduation, students will have the opportunity to join the academy at the Cripple Creek fire department, with tuition funded by the high school. Munch believes this program presents a significant career opportunity.
The curriculum emphasizes building relationships and community engagement. Junior Lux Wahlberg shared, “Mr. Munch is a really cool teacher… I would like saving lives.” Lilly Minneweh sees the class as a viable alternative to college, having learned about the dangers of the career through Munch’s guidance.
Savannah Mead, a senior and Madison’s twin, cherishes the hands-on experience and the opportunity to help save lives. Annie Durham coordinates the program, while Principal Holly Sample supported the students during training. She stated, “These are desperately needed jobs, with the drought and pine-beetle infestation that continues to remain a threat to us.”
Chief Hawkins summarized his commitment, saying, “We are teaching them professionalism, interviewing skills, everything they need to be successful adults.” This fire science class not only prepares students for potential careers but also instills a sense of responsibility, community service, and leadership in the next generation.
