RESPONDER READY ACADEMY

Public Safety
Communications Academy

The Responder Ready: Public Safety Communications Academy is a youth program that teaches young adults the skills and knowledge used in 9-1-1 and public safety communications. Participants learn how public safety services are managed in their community, explore roles in emergency communications, law enforcement, fire, and EMS, and discover related career paths.

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What Is Public Safety Communications?

Public safety dispatchers answer both non-emergency and 9-1-1 emergency calls and coordinate responses from law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel. The academy's purpose is to introduce young adults to this crucial profession.

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Program Highlights

  • 48 hours of classroom instruction covering critical topics like ethics, customer service, and public safety procedures.
  • Sit-along opportunities with dispatchers at law enforcement and fire communications centers, offering hands-on experience.
  • Graduates gain firsthand insight into how public safety dispatchers help keep their communities safe.

The Responder Ready Academy emphasizes empowering young adults and fostering an interest in public safety careers.

Program Information:
  • When: Every Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
  • Dates: March 21 – June 6, 2026
  • Where: County Operations Center, Kearny Mesa

Join Responder Ready Academy to learn life-saving skills, gain leadership experience, and make a real impact in your community. Get ready to help when it matters most!

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Who Should Join?

This program is open to:

  • At least 16 years old
  • High school student with 2.0 GPA or better
  • Provide recommendation from teacher, counselor, or other school staff
  • Have permission of parent or legal guardian to attend

What You’ll Learn

  • Critical thinking and decision-making
  • Professionalism and ethics in public safety
  • Customer service principles
  • Verbal and written communication skills
  • Public safety call-taking and dispatching procedures
  • Want to learn more about the Sheriff's Communications Center click here
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