Strand Description

Is there a Hero in you…? Do you think you have what it takes? First Responder III is an exciting program that prepares students to provide initial emergency medical care to sick or injured persons. As of 2010, the term “First Responder” has changed to “Emergency Medical Responder”. The First Responder strand is designed to lead into an EMT, Paramedic, or Emergency Medical Services program on the postsecondary level (after high school). However, it is a solid medical course that covers illnesses, injuries, assessment & treatment to every major body system. It expands on basic medical skills and will serve as a base for further education in any healthcare career. Also, it is for anyone who just wants to learn “life-saving”, advanced, first aid skills. Currently in Miami-Dade County, an Emergency Medical Responder certificate is not in itself, sufficient for employment in Emergency Medical Services. It is however, a mandatory prerequisite for the entry level Emergency Medical Technician course/program. And you will be able to help family, friends and anyone in the community when an emergency occurs!


The State of Florida, Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, has approved Ferguson’s First Responder Program as an official training site. The Miami-Dade County Public Schools Health Science Education program has a memorandum of agreement in articulation with Miami-Dade College for the First Responder program completer toward an Associate in Science Degree in Emergency Medical Services. Upon successful completion of the First Responder program at Ferguson, (with a grade of A or B in all academy classes), students will receive 6 Miami-Dade College course credits toward the EMS program at Miami Dade College.

Costs associated with this course are:



*There will be several Field Trips throughout the year. It is expected that the students will pay approximately $5 per trip for bus transportation.

*As of 4/2010, the cost of the First Responder National Certification Exam is $65. All qualified students are expected to pay for, take, and pass the certification exam.