Frenship High School’s first-ever Fire Academy students honored the lives lost on September 11, 2001, by participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Jones Stadium. Together, the group climbed 2,017 steps, the symbolic equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers.
The Stair Climb was more than a workout. It was a moment of unity, reflection, and service. Senior Parker Myers shared that while the challenge was physically demanding, the meaning behind it kept them moving forward.
“It felt like instead of individually running, we were all a team, running up it together. Everybody was supportive; it was a big community coming together to honor the lives lost,” said Myers.
The climb was not only physically demanding but deeply symbolic. Senior Mia Cordero suited up in her bunker pants and jacket to take on the challenge.
“About a third of the way up, I had to give my jacket to another participant because I was getting overheated, but I wanted to push through,” said Coredero. “It was really cool to see everybody together and know we were all doing it for the same cause.”
For senior Jordan Buchanan, the event created a sense of connection.
“It wasn’t just about doing the stair challenge to say we did it. We were running for a cause—for the people who lost their lives that day. Being with everybody and feeling connected was a really powerful experience,” said Buchanan.
Launching this fall, the Fire Academy is a brand-new Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, giving Frenship students an early start on fire service careers. Students attend the South Plains College Fire Academy, receiving hands-on training, dual credit, and industry certifications while still in high school.
“Students showed strong interest in the Fire Academy, and we wanted to give them the opportunity to begin their training in high school,” said Ira Flores, Frenship ISD Director of Career and Technical Education. “This program equips them with the skills, certifications, and confidence to step into meaningful careers in fire service right after graduation.”
That preparation has already left a mark on the students. Cordero shared that the program has taught her accountability and professionalism.
“We’re expected to act a certain way, look a certain way, and represent not only ourselves but the firefighters here in Lubbock,” said Cordero. “It’s a big responsibility, but it’s helped me grow as a leader and a person.”
For Buchanan, the program has deepened his respect for the profession.
“It’s a learning curve. You realize that one day, someone’s life will depend on you,” said Buchanan. “That pressure has pushed me to take it one step at a time.”
Looking ahead, each student has a clear vision for their future. Cordero dreams of moving to New York to serve as a firefighter after college. Myers plans to earn his EMT certification to expand his opportunities across the country. Buchanan hopes to work in Florida or Midland after completing his EMT training at South Plains College.
Though still in their first year of training, the inaugural Fire Academy cohort has already embraced the heart of the fire service: teamwork, perseverance, and service above self.
“At the end of the day, we’re all family. If somebody falls, you pick them up. If somebody drops their weight, you carry it for them. Because in this career, nobody gets left behind,” said Myers.
Together, these students proved that honoring the sacrifice of others means moving forward, one stair, one lesson, and one step at a time.