Teacher serves as fire fighter

AT THE READY: Jean McKenzie with her fire fighting gear and some of her supportive students, from left: Blake Van Straalen, Eli Hodgson, Tabitha Mason, Jordan McIlroy, Hannah-Lou Hittman and Ella Browne. TC150708GJ02

When Pirongia Fire Force siren sounds students know exactly what to do

BY GRANT JOHNSTON

Jean McKenzie successfully juggles dual roles as a senior teacher at Pirongia School with being a volunteer fire fighter — and her pupils love it.

Mrs McKenzie has been helping Pirongia Fire Force deal with fire, motor vehicle accident and other emergency callouts for the past 18 months.

Her class knows exactly what to do when a siren sounds to send their teacher scurrying off to deal with whatever emergency has arisen.

The pupils quietly collect their pre-prepared packs and head off to other classrooms. Named activity sheets ensure the 31 Year 3 and 4 pupils (7 and 8 year olds) continue with their curriculum subjects while their teacher is away.

They are proud of their female, fire fighting teacher and always keen to hear what the callout was when she returns to class. Mrs McKenzie says the parents of the pupils are equally supportive.

‘‘A lot of parents have told me they really like the positive role modelling that is happening.’’

They also appreciate learning what is happening in the district — often before they see it in the paper.

‘‘There were two or three children in the class who were initially frightened when they heard the siren. Through my connection with the Fire Force they have learned it is a sign help is on the way.’’

Mrs McKenzie says her principal Jan Cullen, other teachers and the Board of Trustees have been extremely supportive, something for which she is very grateful.

‘‘It allows me to make a valuable contribution to my community — in school time when necessary as well as in my own time.’’

The number of callouts varies — but over summer there were many to drought related fires (as well as the Tamahere coolstore blaze).

Pirongia Fire Force is currently fundraising for upgraded facilities at its Franklin Street base, with about $183,000 of the required $300,000 in hand to date. Refurbishment of the front office building is almost complete.

Callouts have increased steadily in recent years — with 25 recorded in the first third of 2008 including some extremely time demanding ones. The Fire Force is looking for new volunteers. Anyone interested can phone the station at 871 9986 or call in on practice night (Monday, 7pm).