Media Advisory: Idaho State Police Hosts “Train the Trainer” Event to Expand Fentanyl Education in Schools

MERIDIAN, Idaho – The Idaho State Police (ISP) will host a “Train the Trainer” event on Tuesday, September 24th, at Gowen Field, as part of a broader initiative to educate Idaho school communities about the dangers of fentanyl. Approximately 40 officers from across Idaho will be trained to deliver Fentanyl Education presentations in schools and community meetings, empowering them to protect students and families.

This event is part of the Idaho Fentanyl Education Program (IFEP), a larger outreach initiative launched in close partnership with the Idaho Department of Education. The program, funded by a $400,000 allocation from the Idaho Legislature’s Millennium Fund Committee, allows schools in Idaho’s six regions to host educational events featuring law enforcement presentations. These sessions provide students, parents, and teachers with vital information on how fentanyl enters communities, how students might encounter it, and the life-threatening risks it poses.

John Kempf, IFEP’s co-coordinator, emphasized the program’s importance, “This training is key to preparing officers to engage effectively with schools and communities across Idaho. As fentanyl becomes a growing threat, it’s critical to equip officers with the tools they need to educate and protect our most vulnerable populations. The Train the Trainer event allows us to spread this message statewide.” With over 26 years of service, Kempf retired from ISP as the District 1 Captain, where he led drug interdiction efforts and championed this program.

Half of the attending officers represent agencies outside ISP, demonstrating the statewide commitment and dedication to addressing the opioid crisis. Their presence at the event is a testament to the collective effort in combating this growing threat.

Media Interview Availability

Media representatives are invited to interview instructors during or after the event to discuss the significance of the Idaho Fentanyl Education Program (IFEP). Classroom photography for the B-roll will be allowed. Interested media should contact John Kempf at 208-243-4287. Zoom interviews are available for those unable to attend in person. Kempf and several instructors will also be available for interviews on Monday, September 23rd, at the Top Gun opening ceremony.

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Posted in District 1 - Northern Idaho, District 2 - Central Idaho, District 3 - Western Idaho, District 4 - Southern Idaho, District 5 - Southeastern Idaho, District 6 - Eastern Idaho