West Potomac Senior Turns 911 Dispatch Training Into Emergency Response Career
Alexandria, VA – Lily, a West Potomac High School senior, is heading directly into the workforce with life-saving skills and real-world experience gained through Fairfax County Public Schools’ 911 Dispatch program.
Lily participated in West Potomac Academy’s career and technical education courses and discovered a passion for emergency response while learning how to handle crisis calls, communicate under pressure, and support first responders during emergencies. The hands-on program gives students a close look at careers in public safety, including emergency medical services, dispatch, and law enforcement.
West Potomac Academy recently hosted a large-scale emergency simulation in which students worked alongside professional first responders to manage a mock crisis scene. Students trained in dispatching, emergency medical care, and crowd control while practicing the fast decision-making skills required in real emergencies.
The experience opened the door to immediate employment opportunities for Lily after graduation. School officials say partnerships with local agencies and emergency services help students build connections that can lead directly to internships and careers.
The program is part of FCPS’s broader Career and Technical Education initiative, which prepares students for high-demand careers through hands-on learning and industry partnerships. Educators say programs like the 911 Dispatch course not only teach technical skills, but also confidence, teamwork, and leadership.
National EMS Week has highlighted the important work of EMTs and emergency personnel across the country, and West Potomac educators say students entering the field are helping meet a growing need for trained emergency responders. For Lily, a classroom experience has already become the first step toward a career dedicated to helping others in moments of crisis.
