Thomas Jefferson hs - 1
NYC Newswire
As reported by the Daily News. a Brooklyn high school in East New York, honoring a 9/11 hero, has expanded its offerings for the new school year, marking a significant milestone more than 20 years after the tragic attacks.
FDNY High School Expands to Double Enrollment and Enhance Career Education
Capt. Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety (FDNY) recently merged with the High School for Civil Rights, an existing program within the Thomas Jefferson Campus. This expansion will provide career-focused education to an additional 200 students, preparing them for roles within the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and other industries.
This merger will nearly double the school’s enrollment. Last year, the FDNY-centered high school served 231 students, predominantly boys of color from working-class families, according to Department of Education data. Approximately 75% of the students were male.
As quoted in the Daily News, Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker stated, “This school has been a crucial avenue for diversifying the ranks of New York’s Bravest. By expanding its reach, more young people will have the opportunity to explore the exceptional career paths offered by the FDNY.”
FDNY High School Adds Cybersecurity and Law Pathways, Expanding Career Opportunities
In addition to its emphasis on fire and life safety, the school will introduce two new career pathways: cybersecurity and law. The cybersecurity program will collaborate with tech giant Cisco, while the district is actively seeking a partner for the law track.
“We’re evolving from a single-focus school into a multidimensional program with three distinct career tracks,” explained Principal James Anderson.
“We tell students that a career with the FDNY, whether as an EMT or firefighter, can be either a Plan A or Plan B for their future. If you know this is your passion, we’ll help you get prepared for the job. If it’s a backup option and you want to explore other areas like business first, that’s fine too—having these certifications will still be a great asset.”
The school, now celebrating its 20th anniversary, was renamed in honor of Capt. Vernon A. Richard less than a decade ago. Richard, a beloved firefighter, was killed during the 9/11 attacks.
Affectionately known as the “gentle giant,” Richard served 16 years with the FDNY in the Bronx before being promoted to lieutenant in 1994, becoming the first Black firefighter appointed from that list. He was tragically killed at age 53 and posthumously promoted to captain.
Honoring 9/11 Hero, FDNY High School Celebrates Alumni Success and First Female Firefighter Graduate
“Captain Vernon A. Richard made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Anderson. “Most of our students weren’t even born when 9/11 happened, so it’s important that we continue to teach this crucial chapter of American history.”
As of June, 101 graduates of the school have joined the FDNY as EMTs, paramedics, or firefighters. Among them is Kristal Payne, a 2013 graduate who became the first female firefighter from the FDNY high school.
“I always knew I wanted to be a firefighter,” said Payne, 28. “My dad was a firefighter in Barbados, and most of my brothers are firefighters too.”
Payne recalled learning about the program at a high school fair. “My mom was concerned about the long commute, but I knew this was the right choice. I didn’t even consider other schools after that—it was exactly where I wanted to be.”
