MOSCOW, ID – The Moscow Volunteer Fire Department officially welcomed its newest group of student resident firefighters over the weekend, marking the start of the 2025–2026 academic year for the department’s unique student program.

Nine new “rookies” joined the ranks during the department’s annual Family & Welcome BBQ on Saturday.  The students also moved into their new living quarters inside the city’s fire stations over the weekend.

Unlike traditional dorms, these student firefighters live on-site and respond to emergencies as part of their training and service. They run engine shifts every five days while also attending college.

This year’s group includes 20 returning student firefighters in addition to the nine new recruits. All will continue their development through onboarding and training in the coming weeks, leading up to their participation in the department’s Fire Academy later this month.

“Welcome to the MVFD family,” the department said in a social media post.