Press Release

Metropolitan Education District 760 Hillsdale Ave San Jose, CA 95136 February 7, 2008

Contact: Michelle Alaimo Communication Specialist (408) 723-6464 malaimo@metroed.net

CCOC's Fire Science Program to Receive $95,000 in Specialized Funding

Central County Occupational Center (CCOC)'s Fire Science High School Program will receive $95,304 in specialized funding thanks to an appropriations request sponsored by Silicon Valley Congressman Mike Honda.

“Last year's devastating wildfires reminds us of the important role our firefighters and EMTs play in protecting our communities,” said Rep. Honda. “I am hopeful that these funds can be used to encourage more students into careers in public service and public safety.”

CCOC Director John Fox and Assistant Principal Sylvia Evans submitted the federal funding request in February 2007 and learned this week that the request was approved. The funding will be used to help cover the costs of the Fire Science program which began at CCOC in August 2007. Many of the students that are trained in the program will remain in the 15th Congressional District as stakeholders in the community.

“We're not only investing in the infrastructure of this program,” Honda continued, “but, more importantly, we're investing in the future of our students and the safety of our communities.”

CCOC's Fire Science class is open to high school juniors and seniors from six high school districts: Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint Union High School District, Campbell Union High School District, East Side Union High School District, San Jose Unified School District, Milpitas Unified School District, and the Santa Clara Unified School District.

CCOC will hold a Fire Science/EMT High School Program Dedication Ceremony on February 13th, from 1:30 to 2:45 at 760 Hillsdale Avenue, San Jose. State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jack O'Connell, will serve as the keynote speaker and Congressman Mike Honda will announce the specialized funding for CCOC.

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MetroED is the largest career-oriented educational organization in Santa Clara County, comprised of high school and adult occupational, academic and community programs.

MetroED annually provides 50,000 diverse students with the skills to help them be productive, income-earning and tax-paying contributors to Silicon Valley.