Clovis East High School’s Fire Technology career technical education program has earned an Industry-Certified Program of Excellence designation from a prestigious national accreditation group.

The Law and Public Safety Education Network, which works to recognize exemplary law and public safety education programs, is awarding the Clovis Unified program.

“This national accreditation highlights the exceptional work being done to prepare our students for their future. They are not only gaining industry standard fire-fighting skills, but they are also growing as leaders and learning what it means to serve others,” said CTE Director Margaret Files.

The Fire Technology pathway serves juniors and seniors, mirroring expectations of a Firefighter 1 entry-level academy. This program challenges enrolled students academically, physically, and professionally, the district said in a statement.

Classes focus on developing discipline, leadership, and practical skills required in fire service careers.

Retired Firefighter Leads the Program

George Mavrikis, a retired firefighter with 30 years of experience, leads the program. He joined the district in 2023, providing students with real-world knowledge.

LASPEN will officially award Clovis Unified with the national accreditation during a ceremony at 10 a.m. today at the Clovis East Fire Technology classrooms.

The event will celebrate the students and educators whose efforts position the program and district among the nation’s leaders in public safety career education.

It will include guest speakers celebrating the program, along with firefighting demonstrations by current students showing what they are learning.

Clovis East Earns Second Accreditation from LAPSEN

This designation marks the second LAPSEN-accredited program in Clovis Unified, following the Clovis East Criminal Justice CTE program.

Now, Clovis East is one of only three schools in the nation to hold two Program of Excellence designations.

LAPSEN conducts a national review process that evaluates curriculum alignment, industry partnerships, student skill development, and program administration before awarding accreditation.

Programs earning the recognition meet high standards for quality, relevance, and workforce readiness in public safety education.