Greece Central School District hosted a Responding to Emergencies (RTE) Showcase on May 22 at Odyssey Academy, highlighting the real-world public safety skills students are gaining through the district’s innovative career pathway program. A major feature of the event was the debut of a fully functional ambulance donated by Monroe Ambulance, now housed at Odyssey to serve as a mobile training lab for aspiring first responders.
The showcase included interactive stations led by students demonstrating emergency skills such as CPR, first aid, hose handling, and ladder operations. The newly donated ambulance was integrated into these hands-on activities, giving students a chance to apply their learning in a realistic, professional setting.
“We are incredibly grateful to Monroe Ambulance for this impactful contribution to our students’ education,” said Jeremy Smalline, Superintendent of the Greece Central School District. “This donation brings our Responding to Emergencies curriculum to life and gives students a unique opportunity to build the skills and confidence they need to pursue careers in public safety.”
The ambulance donation is part of Monroe Ambulance’s commitment to workforce development and community service. “Monroe Ambulance is proud to support the next generation of emergency responders,” said Tom Coyle, President of Monroe Ambulance. “This program aligns with our mission to serve the community and invest in the future of EMS. By donating this ambulance, we hope to inspire students to explore careers that make a difference.”
The RTE Career Pathway Program prepares high school students for careers in law enforcement, fire service, and emergency medical services (EMS). The program combines classroom instruction with real-world practice and mentorship, supported by partnerships with local emergency services organizations including the Ridge Road Fire District, Monroe County Fire Bureau, Monroe Community College, Greece Police Department, Barnard Fire District, Lake Shore Fire District, North Greece Fire District, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and Monroe Ambulance.
Currently, 50 students are enrolled in the RTE program, with enrollment expected to double next school year. It is one of six Career Pathways offered by the Greece Central School District to help students explore their passions and prepare for life after high school.
Greece Central educators and program partners see the RTE pathway as a powerful tool for recruiting into public safety professions – especially critical at a time when communities across the country are experiencing workforce shortages in emergency response fields.
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