Every year on October 28, National First Responders Day gives us a moment to pause and recognize the people who step forward when others are in need. Firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and 911 telecommunicators are often the first connection in an emergency. They are the calm voice, the steady guide, and the link between crisis and help.
Recently, that recognition took an important step forward. In a historic move, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Enhancing First Response Act (S.725), legislation that calls for the reclassification of 911 telecommunicators under the “Protective Service Occupation” category in the federal government’s Standard Occupational Classification system. This aligns with the long-standing goals of the 911 SAVES Act, a bill supported by public safety advocates for years. While this reclassification has not yet been finalized at the federal level, the Senate's action represents a major milestone in recognizing 911 professionals for the critical, life-saving work they do. RapidDeploy applauds this progress and the tireless advocacy from public safety leaders and organizations like NENA and APCO who have helped bring national attention to the role of telecommunicators as essential first responders.
At RapidDeploy, we are proud to support this community through the technology we build and the stories they share. National First Responders Day is not just a date on the calendar for us. It is a chance to reflect on the mission that drives everything we do.
One of the most meaningful ways we celebrate that mission is by lifting up the voices of the next generation.
This fall, we partnered with NCT9-1-1 to host the second annual 911 Heroes Art Contest. This year we expanded the contest to K–12 students across North Central Texas, and invited students to create original artwork honoring first responders in their communities.
We encouraged each artwork representation to include a 911 telecommunicator, or a symbol that represents a telecommunicator or PSAP. Many students chose to include the full spectrum of public safety professionals, including firefighters, EMS personnel, and law enforcement officers.
This year, more than 600 students submitted artwork. Many also recorded short videos describing what inspired their pieces. Their words were thoughtful and honest, reminding us just how clearly young people recognize the importance of those who protect and serve.
In 2024, we were proud to help bring two student-inspired murals to life, each one a celebration of community, creativity, and the people who answer the call.
The first mural was based on the winning artwork from Landrie Reeves, a sixth grader at Stafford Elementary. Her drawing stood out for its heartfelt message and detailed depiction of first responders working together, including fire, EMS, police, and 911 telecommunicators. That piece became the inspiration for a public mural in Italy, Texas, Landrie’s hometown, where it now stands as a personal and powerful tribute to the profession she chose to honor through her art.
The second mural was painted in Bridgeport, Texas, and took shape through a unique collaboration. Students from Miss Dickerson’s art class at Bridgeport Middle School submitted entries as part of the 2024 contest. Several of those submissions were selected and thoughtfully combined into one cohesive design, brought to life by a local muralist. Installed on the historic Bridgeport Hospital building, the mural was unveiled during a community celebration on March 5.
While Landrie’s mural reflected the individual vision of a single young artist, the Bridgeport mural became a collaborative tribute, both honoring first responders in different, but equally meaningful ways.
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We are proud to announce the winner of the 2025 911 Heroes Art Contest:
Selene M., an 8th grader from Dublin Secondary School.
Selene's artwork was selected for its creativity, emotional depth, and a clear message of unity among first responders. It captures the spirit of courage, collaboration, and care that defines emergency response work.
The winning piece will be transformed into a public mural in North Texas, with installation scheduled for 2026. New this year, In recognition of their achievement, the student will also receive a scholarship contribution from Motorola Solutions to support their future education and creative journey.
In addition to the mural winner, we’re thrilled to feature the top 10 entries selected for our special First Responder Coloring Book. These pieces, created by students in grades K–5, will be shared at public safety events and in classrooms across Texas.
Take a look at their incredible work below. Each image celebrates the heroes behind the scenes and on the front lines.
Now in its second year, the 911 Heroes Art Contest brought in dozens of thoughtful and creative submissions from K–12 students across North Central Texas. A panel of judges carefully reviewed the entries and selected ten standout pieces to be featured as finalists in the public voting round.
These works reflect more than just artistic skill. Each one is a personal expression of gratitude, a young person’s way of honoring the people who serve their community in moments of crisis.
From bold colors to intricate detail, these pieces captured the spirit of first response and the heart behind the headset. We’re proud to share this year’s top 10 student tributes below.
Their art reminds us that appreciation can come in many forms, and that first responders leave a lasting impression on even the youngest members of our communities.
This year’s campaign invited something new: spoken gratitude. Alongside their artwork, student artists and children of RapidDeploy and NCT9-1-1 employees were encouraged to share short video messages for the people who show up when it matters most.
What was captured is simple, personal, and moving.
The 911 Heroes Art Contest began as a way to celebrate first responders and engage the next generation through creativity and community. Over the past two years, we’ve seen just how powerful that connection can be: from mural dedications and classroom participation, to heartfelt messages from young artists who are already showing us what gratitude looks like.
We often talk about NextGen 911 as a leap in technology with a future built on data, speed, and smarter tools. But this campaign reminded us that the next generation is already stepping up to support public safety with creativity, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the people who serve.
While this program began in partnership with NCT9-1-1, we believe it could serve as a model for other communities looking to recognize and celebrate their own first responders in meaningful ways.
If your agency, school district, or community is interested in learning more or exploring a potential partnership, we’d love to hear from you.
You can reach us through our contact form.
To every student who submitted artwork, to the teachers and families who encouraged them, and to the first responders who continue to inspire all of us, thank you.
Your service is seen. Your impact is felt. Your work matters.
From all of us at RapidDeploy, happy National First Responders Day.
