Hicksville High School is proud to celebrate the success of its inaugural Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program, launched this school year in partnership with the Hicksville Fire Department and the Nassau County EMS Academy. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment, all 10 students selected for the first cohort successfully completed the rigorous training program.

The program was established to provide students with hands-on medical training while instilling the core values of service, leadership, teamwork and community responsibility. Following a highly competitive selection process, 10 outstanding students were chosen to participate in the district's first EMT course, which met every Monday and Wednesday after school through May.

Throughout the program, students engaged in intensive instruction aligned with New York State Department of Health protocols, gaining expertise in patient assessment, CPR and basic life support, trauma care, emergency response procedures and other critical lifesaving skills. Beyond technical training, students developed the confidence, professionalism and decision-making abilities necessary to respond effectively in real-world emergency situations.

A key figure in the program's success was Ms. Dina Ditrano, a dedicated Hicksville educator of 32 years and volunteer EMT, who played an integral role in overseeing and supporting the initiative. Working alongside instructor Mr. Michael Finneran, students were challenged to meet the demands of professional EMT training while preparing for certification and future careers in health care, emergency services, public safety and related fields.

"This program represents a tremendous opportunity for our students to gain meaningful, career-ready experience while learning skills that can truly save lives," said Ms. Ditrano. "The commitment demonstrated by this inaugural class has been extraordinary."

The EMT Program was made possible through the generous support of the Hicksville Fire Department, which fully covered tuition and supply costs for all participants. Their investment reflects a strong commitment to youth education, public safety and the future of emergency medical services within the community.

The success of the inaugural cohort marks an important milestone for Hicksville High School and highlights the value of community partnerships in expanding educational opportunities for students.

The district extends its congratulations on the success of the first EMT Class, gratitude to instructor Mr. Michael Finneran, supervisor Ms. Dina Ditrano, the Hicksville Fire Department and the district's educational staff for making this achievement possible.

(L-R) Mr. Finneran, Jasmeet Kaur, Nandini Bali, Gabrielle Howell, Mariel Mercado, Shelby Fraser, Sahej Lehal, Joel Calle, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mrs. Ditrano, Sara Bakhteri *not pictured: Crisbel Verdugo-Ortiz