JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – For the 9th year, Jamestown High School Freshmen will become graduates of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program May 3rd.

Stutsman County Emergency Manager and 911 Coordinator Jerry Bergquist says the hands-on course teaches students about emergency preparedness, fire safety, medical triage, disaster medical, search and rescue and more.

Since starting in 2010, more than 1,000 teens have gone through the unique program in the Jamestown Public School District. Bergquist says some of the students have even picked careers related to CERT.

In 2018, 107 Freshmen participated in the final exercise simulation; A bleacher collapse in the Jamestown High School Gymnasium.

JHS Drama students lend their talents as injured victims in the scenario. Following the exercise, students are presented with Certificates of Completion in a graduation ceremony.