VALLEY CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Valley City High School launched its Teen Community Emergency Response Team (Teen CERT) program earlier this year, it’s a hands-on training initiative that equips students with critical emergency preparedness and response skills.

The Teen CERT program, supported by FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security, is designed to teach high school students how to safely respond to a variety of emergencies and disasters.

Barnes County Emergency Manager Jessica Jenrich is the coordinator of the Teen CERT program. She gave an update to the school board during their meeting on November 12th.

Hi Liner freshmen enrolled in the Health Education class who complete the program will be certified to assist first responders during emergencies, support community outreach efforts, and promote safety awareness throughout the school and the greater Valley City community.

Health Education Teacher Trevor Bakalar said CERT is ideal for helping teens develop and broaden their leadership skills while collaborating with others to benefit their community.

Feature photo is Jessica Jenrich with Valley City School board members.