For students interested in careers in law enforcement or firefighting, Orange Lutheran’s First Responders Academy offers a high school experience like no other. By dividing coursework between online and on-campus classes, Academy students can take advantage of experiential learning opportunities in the First Responder field of their interest without missing the Christ-centered education, social events, academic support, counselors, teachers, activities, and campus facilities that only Orange Lutheran can offer.
HANDS-ON TRAINING
The First Responders Academy (FRA) engages students passionate about exploring future career options in the areas of law enforcement or fire. A blended academic mix of online courses, on-campus courses, and co-curricular learning opportunities develop key competencies for a future career as a First Responder. Individualized learning opportunities may include:
- Physical training with professional academy instructors
- Fire and police station tours
- Lectures and learning sessions led by professionals in the field
- Ride-along opportunities (senior year)
- Training in Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, with certification upon completion
FLEXIBLE HYBRID SCHEDULE
Students accepted into the First Responders Academy will have a blended academic schedule of online and on-campus classes. A hybrid schedule creates space for co-curricular Academy activities while allowing students to enjoy the community benefits of the high school experience at Orange Lutheran. Academy members will also serve at various OLu and community events alongside trained First Responders and will have the opportunity to serve in that capacity on trips through Orange Lutheran’s Missions Program.
JUMP START COLLEGE COURSEWORK
Junior and senior year coursework includes dual credit courses through Santa Ana College that provide a pathway to enter SAC’s Criminal Justice Academy or Fire Academy. During the senior year, FRA members will design and implement an individualized capstone project in an area of their interest. Once approved, a community mentor will be appointed to assist the student with developing the capstone project during their senior year. Each academic year will include a culminating Capstone Showcase, open to parents and community members, in which each academy member will present their project.
Students who complete the First Responders Academy will develop the fundamental training and skills needed to prepare them for a life of service to their community as First Responders. Students who complete academy requirements will receive a First Responders Academy designation on their transcript and dual credit for academy courses taken through Santa Ana College.
REQUEST INFORMATION
Complete the form below to receive more information about Orange Lutheran’s First Responders Academy from our Admissions team.
FIRST RESPONDERS ACADEMY REQUIREMENTS
Students accepted into the First Responders Academy are held to high behavioral standards befitting those seeking to become first responders within the community. In addition to completing the required coursework, students must complete 10 hours of experiential learning and professional enrichment opportunities during their freshman year and 25 hours per year during their sophomore, junior, and senior years. Learning opportunities and experiences include fire and police station tours, presentations by professionals in the field, ride-along opportunities, tactical medicine, First Aid/CPR training, field service opportunities, mock interviews, and mentoring.
Participation in the full blended model of the First Responders Academy requires an annual nonrefundable fee of $1,200 per year*, which covers equipment, experiential learning opportunities, field trips, transportation, apparel, program management, and other needs.
*Other options are available for those students wanting a full on-campus schedule, with a reduction in experiential learning opportunities. Participation in the “non-blended” First Responders Academy requires an annual refundable fee of $800 per year.
HOW TO APPLY
Students must have submitted an Orange Lutheran Admission Application before applying for the First Responders Academy. Once an Orange Lutheran Admission Application has been submitted (or if you are a current Orange Lutheran student), you may complete the First Responders Academy Application here: First Responders Academy Application.
FAQ
Who can participate in the First Responders Academy?
FRA is open to all Orange Lutheran students and is currently admitting incoming freshmen and rising sophomores. Rising juniors and seniors wishing to participate in FRA should contact the Orange Lutheran Online (OLO) office.
Is this a Blended program?
Full participation in the FRA is best achieved with a blended schedule of online and on-campus courses, allowing additional time for experiential learning activities associated with the FRA. However, it is understood that a blended schedule is not possible for all students and there is a non-blended option for students who are unable or do not desire a blended schedule.
Can I play sports and be in the FRA?
Yes! The non-blended option works well for our OLu athletes. Our counselors and advisors will do their best to accommodate the schedule challenges for OLu athletes wishing to participate in the FRA.
Will I have to take online classes?
All students in the FRA will take some courses online. The majority of the FRA specific coursework is in an online, asynchronous format, allowing for the greatest amount of flexibility in the student’s schedule. Some junior and senior level courses are taken in conjunction with Santa Ana College and will not be online, but may be offered in the evening on the Orange Lutheran campus.
Is there a cost associated with the First Responders Academy?
Academy costs for both blended and non-blended versions of the FRA are shown in the Requirements section above and on the FRA Application.
