Principal Hilary Clancy said fifth grade was the perfect time to introduce this information, as children start to expand their responsibilities at home.
“At this age, students are gaining more independence and beginning to take on responsibilities at home, such as helping in the kitchen or using small appliances,” she said. “With that increased independence comes a greater need for awareness and accountability when it comes to safety.”
Firefighters discussed the proper way to deal with kitchen flare-ups, how to use extinguishers, and ways to involve their families in fire safety. Clancy said firefighters bring real-world experience, practical examples, and a sense of urgency that helps students better understand the consequences of unsafe behaviors.
“Hearing directly from firefighters adds a level of authenticity and impact that is difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom setting. Their presence also allows students to ask questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and learn preventative strategies in a way that is both memorable and relevant. Ultimately, these interactions help students develop lifelong safety habits and a deeper respect for fire safety protocols.”
Students received information to help them speak with their families about fire safety, and each received a free smoke detector from the City of Greensboro.
Clancy said having firefighters in the school for educational purposes shines a different light on their importance in the community.
“It is incredibly important for students and families to see the fire department as not only emergency responders, but also as proactive community partners in education and safety. When firefighters are present in a school setting, it helps build trust, familiarity, and open lines of communication between families and first responders.”
It also helps reduce the fear students may experience when seeing first responders and increases confidence in knowing who to turn to in a crisis. For families, it provides reassurance that safety is a shared priority between the school and local emergency services.
“These interactions strengthen the overall school community by promoting collaboration, preparedness, and awareness. When students and families regularly engage with the fire department in positive, educational contexts, it leads to a more informed and safety-conscious community as a whole.”
Great work supporting safety in your community, Gate City!
About Gate City Charter Academy
Gate City Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Greensboro, North Carolina, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 68,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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