New FPSI Dual Enrollment Program Gives High School Seniors a Direct Pathway to a Career in Public Safety

August 26, 2026

Nine Gadsden County High School seniors are getting a head start on careers in public safety through a new dual enrollment Correctional Officer Certification Program made possible through a collaboration between the Florida Public Safety Institute (FPSI), the Gadsden County Sheriff's Office, and Gadsden County Schools.

Through the program, students dual-enroll at FPSI, complete the required correctional officer training, and take the state certification exam before graduating high school. Upon successful completion of the program, students will be eligible to serve as certified correctional officers in Florida.

"Our partnership with Sheriff Young and Gadsden County Schools is giving nine enthusiastic students a head start toward careers as certified correctional officers. This collaboration is a great example of how strong community partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for our students while helping prepare the next generation of Florida's workforce," said Janet Hartman, Executive Director of FPSI.

The program gives students hands-on career preparation while addressing the growing need for qualified correctional officers in the local workforce.

Correctional officers in the area earn an average annual salary of approximately $55,000 to $62,000, making the certification an opportunity for students to begin earning a competitive income shortly after graduation.

By bringing together education and workforce development, FPSI, the Gadsden County Sheriff's Office, and Gadsden County Schools are creating a pipeline for students interested in serving their community.

The organizations involved hope to expand the program following the inaugural class and provide even more students with opportunities to pursue careers in public safety.