Baltimore City Public Schools -

CTE Spotlight. An inside look at the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) pathway at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School.

"Tourniquets go two inches above the wound."

Jasmine, a senior, has been practicing this skill since 10th grade.

"I'm excited, we're about to get our [EMT] certification for the program. Right now we're doing things just to be sure about it."

Joseph, a senior athlete, says helping others comes naturally.

He adds that the CTE pathway showed him he can be a "very hands-on people person."

"My mom always told me to have a second backup besides sports. This is something that inspired me because I like to help people."

Each year, students who demonstrate exceptional diligence earn lieutenant positions.

The role requires determination, dependability, high academic performance, and strong mastery of skills.

Only five students have earned the Lieutenant position. Among them, Kayla was one of just two selected for promotion to Captain.

As a senior Captain, she helps train fellow leaders and guides student progress,

As the program's second captain this year, Kaedan says the experience strengthened his leadership voice and taught him to "speak up for others the way you would speak up for yourself."

Kaeden is grateful for his CTE pathway, bringing "professional outings and in-field trainings" to his resume. Including a Johns Hopkins visit organized by Dunbar EMt instructor Venetia Roberts. ("Mrs. V")

Students often cite Mrs. V as the reason they push beyond certification and continue their studies after completing the program.

With more than 20 years of experience as an EMT, she has taught at Howard and Essex Community colleges and worked with MedStar and Johns Hopkins before being personally invited by Principal Reeves to teach at Dunbar.

"When Dr. Reeves first asked if I'd consider the position, I said, 'Oh no, I don't teach children!' Her passion for making sure students had someone who would stay the course and relate to them changed my mind."

"I agreed to a temporary assignment to get the program on track. Six years later, I'm still here. The students have taught me patience and grace."

CTE pathway classes provide the opportunity for students to have the same teacher throughout high school, building strong connections that carry into the workforce.

"We've built a valuable partnership with the Baltimore City Fire Department, and it shows. More students than ever can sit for the city and state boards. Last year was the first year dispatch AEID certification was offered, and we had a 100% pass rate."

Learn more about the CTE pathways offered across the district at https://www.baltimorecityschools.org/page/cte