JASPER COUNTY, Mo. — The Jasper County Emergency Services Board of Directors takes great pride in acknowledging the outstanding achievements of April Ford, who has served as our Executive Director since June 1st, 2010. April has recently accepted an exciting opportunity at the Springfield-Greene County 911 Emergency Communications Center, and we wish to express our congratulations and heartfelt gratitude for her invaluable contributions throughout her tenure.
Under April’s exceptional leadership, Jasper County emergency services experienced significant advancements, fostering a culture of positive change and community involvement. Among the numerous accomplishments that have shaped our organization during her tenure are:
- Strengthened Community Bonds: April played a pivotal role in cultivating strong relationships with public safety agencies and neighboring 911 and dispatch centers. Her efforts during the May 22, 2011, tornado brought together telecommunications emergency response taskforces, creating a collaborative network that ensured effective emergency response and support.
- Technological Advancements: April successfully oversaw the migration to a state-of-the-art Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, facilitating seamless data sharing among neighboring jurisdictions. Furthermore, she spearheaded the implementation of Text-to-911 and Rapid SOS technologies, enhancing emergency communication capabilities.
- Consolidation and Expansion: April orchestrated the successful consolidation of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center and the Carthage Police Dispatching into the JASCO emergency dispatching operations. Her visionary approach also led to the virtual consolidation of the 911 phone system regionally with Springfield-Greene County 9-1-1, ensuring efficient call management and improved emergency services.
- Excellence in Training and Accreditation: April’s commitment to professional development resulted in the establishment of new and innovative training programs for the JASCO staff. Her dedication to quality assurance and adherence to emergency dispatching protocols led to the Emergency Medical Dispatch Accredited Center of Excellence recognition and ongoing ACE maintenance since 2017.
- Financial Stability and Community Engagement: April’s financial acumen and resourcefulness enabled JASCO to achieve stability by cutting unnecessary spending and implementing strategic saving measures. She also initiated the recognition program for the JASCO team and local child heroes, fostering community involvement and appreciation.
These accomplishments, along with April’s tireless advocacy and involvement in statewide and national emergency services initiatives, have garnered recognition and respect throughout the industry. She has been named the 9-1-1 Director of the Year in Missouri, served as Conference Chairperson for the Missouri Public Safety Communications Conference Committee, and contributed significantly to the Missouri 9-1-1 Legislative Taskforce.
The Jasper County Emergency Services Board of Directors sincerely thanks April Ford for her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community.
