The Octorara Homeland Security & Protective Services Academy (OHSPSA) is an approved Pennsylvania Department of Education Career and Technical Education Program of Study for students interested in careers in Firefighting, Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical, and Emergency Management.

OHSPSA is now available to students in Grades 10-12 in all Chester County schools.

Upon completion, it can be credited for post-secondary education, and students have the ability to earn up to 50 state and national job-related certifications, which are required for entry level positions.

The three-year academy is located at the Chester County Emergency Services Training Center in Coatesville. This is a large facility equipped with the latest technology and equipment available. Students interact on a daily basis with firefighters, law enforcement, and emergency management professionals.

This program stresses the techniques, methods and procedures specific to the areas of criminal justice, fire protection, and emergency medical services, especially in emergency and disaster situations. In addition, students receive training in social and psychological skills, map reading, vehicle and equipment operations, the judicial system, pre-hospital emergency medical care and appropriate emergency assessment, treatment, and communication.

Cadets in the academy join their local fire department/emergency service department upon entering the program. Thus, the community gets instant support, and it’s a win-win situation for everyone.

The program affords the potential opportunities for students to earn:

• Free college tuition
• Free college housing
• Up to 60 college credits
• Up to 50 industry certifications

Click here for more information on the program.