Sussex Tech seniors earn 9-1-1 simulator certification

Twenty-three seniors in the Legal Support Services and Criminal Technologies at Sussex Technical High School recently earned Emergency Telecommunicator Certification. Curriculum in the career-technical area includes instruction on 9-1-1 simulators.

The emergency telecommunications course was conducted on a three-position simulation computer lab suite. The first interacting computer allows for student-created scenarios to be called in to the operator. The second computer is tailored to reflect local maps, addresses, logging in of call takers, and dispatchers. The third computer allows the student to dispatch out the needed assistance. Students received hands-on training in handling emergency situations on state-of-the-art equipment.

Students then took the ETC exam produced by the National Academy of Emergency Dispatchers. Those achieving a passing score of 80 percent or better received certification that is valid for two years. The certification allows students to qualify for jobs as 9-1-1 operators.

During celebration ceremonies at the school, Principal Dr. John Demby congratulated students on their achievement. “That piece of paper entitles you to jobs that pay $10 to $15 more per hour than other jobs held by your peers,” he told the students. “Don’t take your accomplishment lightly. It can open doors for you.”

Career-technical teachers Deangello Eley and Steve Rust taught the course. Students receiving ETC certificates include Juan Alvarez, Kaylee Bastianelli, Gage Betts, Dylan Bryan, Evan Caplan, Samantha Christensen, Haley Feathers, Patrick Gaskin, Colin Hearn, Kyle Hill, Cameron Jackson, Brianna Kessler, Castaysha Lewis, Megan Mahetta, Shanda Mann, Amy Ogundare, Jimmy Orellana-Santos, Victor Rueda, Marc Samaha, Jamiesha Smith, Megan Tindley, Bobby Townley and Dorian Zimmerman.