Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Basic PST class?
The basic PST class is currently $500 per student. Although the training does teach the fundamentals, we also offer 4 free hours of labor to integrate an agency’s policies into the modules.
Do you provide ongoing education classes?
We provide more than just Basic PST classes. We also provide ongoing education classes. Although we do have a topics list in our library, we understand that sometimes an agency might encounter an issue that may attention. For example, if an agency is having a problem with operators not confirming the address for a call for service, then we can create that training for you integrating the agency’s policies and procedures into the module.
How much are ongoing education classes?
Our ongoing education classes can range from $125 to $300 depending on the length of the class.
How long does it take for a student to be registered?
Are there any entry requirements?
We do not make students take an entry test or “remedial” training in order to take the course. We do require a memorandum of understanding to be signed that simply states that the agency understands the student must maintain an 80% cumulative average, they have verified the student’s high school diploma or GED, and the withdrawal policy. This is a simple document (sent via email) that the State of Florida requires to have as a private ongoing education company. Once that has been signed it literally takes about 5 minutes to register the student.
We are in constant contact not only with our students, but also with their supervisor or training coordinator. We send weekly updates and make sure to copy in the agency contact. If a student is not performing well in the class or missing deadlines, we will be in contact the agency designee and discuss the situation. There could be an underlying cause behind the poor performance.
Our training is distinctive because it is created by current and former PSTs that are also teachers and trainers, not by former law enforcement officers or firefighters. Because the training has been created by teachers, it is not just written with/by opinions, but with documented and authentic sources. Our training is not a boring Word document with an attached test. Let’s be frank, what ends up happening with that type of training is that everyone just passes around the answers. Does that really count as training? Does the employee really retain the lesson? No. Our training is interactive with pictures, videos, formative assessments, and summative assessments. According to Psychology Today, “…the effective use of visuals can decrease learning time, improve comprehension, enhance retrieval, and increase retention.” In other words, our lessons are more likely to be retained than reading a boring Word document. Most states and training accreditation standards require a definitive amount of ongoing education hours. Although we can create a monthly training segment for topic list of the agency’s choice, we do offer the option of a customized ongoing training list. For example, an Active Shooter class can be spread over 2 weeks counting towards 4 CEUs.
When you first receive the accreditation packet and begin reading the standards you almost want to toss it aside and say forget it! It can be overwhelming! We are experienced with both APCO’s Training Program certification (formerly Project33) and in CALEA. We can help write or edit your submission(s) or simply guide you through the process.
We understand that Communication centers are a 24/7/365 entity. We all have had shiftwork and have been frustrated not being able to speak to a human “after hours.” We strive to match that availability and are available past the typical 1700 hours for our students. Although we strive for a perfect class, we know that sometimes situations arise where there is a technical issue or a student may have a question. We can be contacted at any time and respond promptly.