Orange Glen High School 1904 Cadets Earn 3rd Place in Countywide Firefighter Challenge

Orange Glen High School’s 1904 Cadets made an impressive debut at the Best of the Best High School Firefighter Challenge, securing third place in San Diego County at their first-ever competition. The event took place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Poway Fire Training Tower, where more than 30 high school students competed in rigorous firefighter skills tests.

The challenge put students through a series of demanding exercises, including quickly and correctly donning firefighting equipment, dragging and using fire hoses, completing a close quarter rescue, working with fire tools, and running up multiple flights of stairs in full gear. The 1904 Cadets demonstrated outstanding teamwork, skill, and determination, standing out among competitors from across the county.

The achievement is particularly significant as it marks the first year of the 1904 Cadets program at Orange Glen High School.

Their success in competition underscores the program’s dedication to preparing students for careers in public service and emergency response.

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their hard work and perseverance,” said Teacher Doug Paulson, who oversees the program. “To place in the top three in their very first competition speaks volumes about their commitment and the strength of our new program.”

The Orange Glen High School 1904 Cadets program provides students with hands-on training and leadership opportunities in public safety. With this early success, the program is poised for even greater achievements in the future.