A Parent's Testimony
Ella’s decision to pursue an Emergency Medical Technician certification wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment choice; it evolved over time. Having developed a strong desire to help others and make a meaningful impact in her community began with her experiences at St. Joseph Community School. Ella felt that becoming an EMT would be a natural way to give back. She learned of the EMS director’s desire to develop an Explorers Program at the High School and was intrigued by the chance to get hands-on experience with emergency medical services. Ella saw this as a unique opportunity to explore the healthcare field. It also presented her with the chance to determine whether this path could eventually become a fulfilling career.
As Ella progressed through the EMS Explorers Program her interest in the field only deepened so she decided to take the EMT course. Ella found herself inspired not only by the hands-on experiences but also by the unwavering dedication and compassion she witnessed in the current EMS employees. It was reminiscent of her days at St. Joes.
St. Joseph Community School was an intricate part of Ella’s emerging desire to be a lifelong learner and to pursue her interests. The small class sizes at St. Joe's created an environment where teachers were able to connect with her on a personal level. They didn’t just see her as a student; they understood her as an individual—recognizing not only her academic needs and strengths but also her fears, challenges, and unique interests. This close-knit setting allowed her teachers to provide the guidance and support she needed, helping her build the confidence to pursue her dreams. Their commitment to nurturing her individual talents empowered Ella to approach challenges with resilience and creativity, knowing she had a strong foundation of support behind her.
The teachers at St. Joe’s genuinely supported Ella’s unique ideas and took the time to nurture her intellectual interests. They encouraged her to dive deeper into topics that fascinated her, even if they went far beyond the standard curriculum. Ella was given the freedom to explore and share her passions, a testament to St. Joseph Community School’s commitment to fostering creativity and intellectual curiosity.
At St. Joe’s, Ella was empowered with the confidence and support to think creatively and push the boundaries of traditional learning. She was encouraged to explore her curiosities, which ignited a passion for learning that continues to guide her approach to challenges today. The school staff instilled in her the value of perseverance, the importance of going the extra mile, and—above all—believing in herself. Ella was always encouraged to explore whatever sparked her curiosity, which fostered a lifelong love for learning that continues to shape her approach to challenges today. The teachers and staff at St. Joseph Community School provided Ella with a solid foundation, one that continues to shape her into the best version of herself. Our family is truly grateful for the wonderful experience Ella had at St. Joseph Community School. The dedicated teachers and staff have made a lasting impact on Ella, shaping her character and preparing her for the bright future she is now stepping into. We are thankful for the support, guidance, and care they have provided throughout her time there.
Link to listen her interview on the radio: https://951thebull.com/2025/01/04/chickasaw-county-ems-hires-first-explorer-program-student/?fbclid=IwY2xjawIAnxhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHWcUbt79KxKWYLZr4Vm6kVVOuRGFxjbJIDzHRPk_BlwRJO51lwvm5web9A_aem_GKfgC9nnchEEAKNCk3VBxw