New academy will expand career opportunities for students while helping address Brevard County's growing need for firefighters and emergency responders.

Brevard Public Schools will soon expand its Career and Technical Education offerings with the addition of a new firefighting program at Cocoa High School, thanks to a $640,000 appropriation included in Florida's state budget signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.

The funding will establish a new firefighting academy at Cocoa High School, creating a direct pathway for students interested in careers in firefighting and emergency services. The program will be only the second high school firefighting academy in Brevard County and is designed to help meet the Space Coast's increasing demand for trained first responders.

The appropriation was sponsored by Senator Debbie Mayfield and Representative Tyler Sirois as a fixed capital outlay project in the state's General Appropriations Act. The funding will support the construction of specialized training facilities and the purchase of equipment needed to launch the program.

"Preparing students for high-demand careers is at the heart of our commitment to every child in Brevard," said Dr. Mark Rendell, Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools. "This program gives Cocoa High students a direct path to a respected, good-paying profession while strengthening our community by helping train the first responders our neighborhoods will depend on for years to come."

Students enrolled in the academy will receive hands-on training, gain industry-relevant experience, and have opportunities to earn certifications that prepare them for careers in firefighting and emergency services following graduation.

District leaders anticipate the program will attract students from throughout Brevard County who are interested in public safety careers, further enhancing Cocoa High School's reputation as a destination for career-focused education.

The new academy is the latest example of Brevard Public Schools' commitment to providing students with real-world learning opportunities that lead directly to meaningful careers. Through partnerships with industry leaders, public agencies, and community organizations, the district continues to expand programs aligned with the needs of the local workforce.

"Career and Technical Education is transforming lives by giving students access to pathways that lead directly to rewarding careers," Dr. Rendell said. "This investment creates opportunities for students while helping meet an important need in our community."

The Cocoa High School Firefighting Program is expected to begin following the completion of facility enhancements and equipment acquisition made possible through the state funding. Once operational, the academy will provide students with valuable skills, industry credentials, and a clear route into one of the region's most essential professions.

As Brevard County continues to grow, the new program will help ensure the next generation of firefighters and emergency responders is prepared to serve and protect the community for years to come.